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NYPL RESEARCH LIBRARIES

3 3433 08191947 8

/vo

WOLFE'S HISTORY

CLINTON COUNTY

IOWA

P. B. WOLFE, Editor-in-Chief

ILLUSTRATED

VOLUME II

B. F. BOWEN & COMPANY

INDIANAPOLIS. INDIANA

191!

THE .NEW YORK

3375G0B

ASTOn, LHNOX A.ND

TILDEN rj:Nn.\T10\S

B VJIO L

CONTENTS

CHAi'TKi: I IOWA AS A 'iKKKIJOl,' V AM) S'lATr, 25

The Louisiana Purchase -Kai-ly Kxidorations— Discovered by DeSoto —
LeCaron — Indi.nia 'I'ci riii.ry Oi-iranizotl — Otiicr Tci ritiirial Divisions — Iowa
Territory— A'arious Cessi<jiis of the Territory —Kenioval (jf I he Indians— First
Permanent Settlement — First Comities ( "re ited— Admissiun nf Die State -Clin-
ton < 'ounty Erected.

CilAPTI'.It II— GF0(;KA1'II[CAI., TOPOiilJAPlIUAL AND <;i:M:KAi, .XA'irUAL

FFATUKES 29

(;enliii,'y (if Clinton County — Its Arei — Dimensions — Toi)ograi>hy — Mississippi
Lowlands — Goose Lake Channel — Drainage— I'reslacial Features — StratiKrajiliy
— General Kelation of Strata — Fuderlyin-.' Formations — The Old Wells in the
City of ("linton- Williiim Pitch Well— 'Che DeWitt Well— The Silurian System
— The Xiairara Limestone — Description liy TownsliiiJS — The Pleistocene System
— .MetiMU'olnLTv — An luti'rest in;; Talile — (ire.itt'st Snow and U.-iin Yeirs.

CHAPTER III— 0U(;AM/AT1(>.\ OF THE COFXTY 41

Territorial Enactment — Camanche Desijin a ted County Seat — The First Com-
missioners— First (Jrand Jurors — First County Otticers — Layi^vu Out of Hiirh-
ways — Territorial Koads Surveyed — Prairie Trails — Change of T(.\vnship Lines
— County Governins: Power — Locating and lie-locating the County Seat — Legis-
lative Enactment — K(>iiort of Commissioners.

CHAP'l'KK IV— EAPLY SETTLEMENT OF CLLXTOX' COT'XTY___ 46

Julian Dul)U(ine. the First Settlei' in Iowa — ciinton County Fiir<t Settled in
isr>;^ — Eli.jah Puell. the Pioneer — Early Ilardshiiis — Conduct of the Indians —
The Pearce Statements Concerning the Early Settlers — An Early Ferry — Old
Settlers" Meeting— Autograph List of First Settlers — Old \Velton Colony — The
Fngiisli Immigrant of is.lO — An Early Letter — Domestic Life — I,aliors and Dif-
tiVnltit's of the Early Settlers.

CHAPTER V— COUNTY COVERNMENT. PAST AXD PRESENT 02

The Foundation — SelcL-tion of a County Seat— Court House History — County
Seat Fixed at Camanche— Removeil to DeWitt — The Brick Court House at
DeWitt — County Seat Removed to Clinton — Burlesque Petition — Lyons Takes
a Hand Lyons and Clinton Fin:illy I'nJl Together — The Pre.sent Court House
— Various County Jails — C(umty I'oor Farm — Items from the Commissioner
and Judges' Records — Proceedin.gs of the Board of Suiiervisors- -Finances of
the County — First Re])ort of Taxes — The C<iunty's Present Finaices — Salaries
of County Otticers.

CHAPTER VT— COrXTY. STATE AND XATIOXAL REPRESENTATION 79

Representatives in Congress — State Senators— Territorial Representatives-
State Rep.resentatives— Reeorders^-Sheriffs— Superintendents of Schools-
County Auditors— County Judges— School Fund Commissioners— Drainage
Comnnssioners— District Attorneys— County Attorneys— Clerks of the Court-
Recorders and Treasurers — ^Treasurers— County Surveyors— Coroners — Board

< ■ I * ' • 1 1 1 1 1 ^\

System.

CON 1 K.N IS.
I ..iMiiiissidiuT.s — Cniiiiiy Supi-rvisors — Supervisors rndcv I'rcseiit

('II.M'IKK \ II -MlI.rrAKV IIISTOKV oF THK (HIUNTY 89

Koiu-estMitiHl in the -Mc.xiciii W;ir— The Civil Wiir — Outluirst <if I'iitiiotisui —
<;i<irioiis Kornnl— War .Meet iiifrs— Lyons Meetinir — Meetinj; and Knii.stmeuts at
Clinton — The Clinton <"oiinty Ciianls — First Clinton County Soldier Killetl —
The Ilawkeye lian^iers-Illaek TMunie Itnn^'ers — Conijiany A. Kii;liTh Itednient
t'omiKiny A, FifletMitli Kei-'inient — Lion Coniiiany of Clinton County — Coni-
pany F. Sixtw^ntli Iieiriment -The Clinton County Ke;:inient. the Twenty-si.xth
— I'onipany .\. Sixth Cavalry — Soldiers Aid and Relief Soiieties — Women Earn-
est and Fnthusiastlc — Roard of Supervisors .\ctive — Clinton County Soldiers —
Misceilaneons Companies — Spanish-American War — rroclamation hy I'resident
MfKinley — (Jeneral OnU'rs Issued — Inwa National (Juard Ordend to Move —
Clinton County in the Forty-ninth I{eirinient — Odicers from Clinton County —
Service by Company L.

CIl.M'TKi: VIII- KAILKOADINt;. STKAMROATIXCJ AND TKANSrOKTATI()N__ 1()4
Clinton I'ortunately Situateil — Its I )ependi>nce on the Itiver — Teanunsr and Ini-
portaid IJnsiness — Its 1 Mlliculties — S,>vere Winter of lNr><;-7 — A Terrible K.xperi-
ence — The Lyons Ferry-boat — Mail Routes — I'rovinoinl Conditions — A Serv-
ice of rni-ertnin Remuneration — A Bath More Important than Mail — The
Layini: Out of a Road — A Resolute Pioneer Woman — River Reminiseences —
Primitive Craft — Railroads vs. Rivers — River Tonna.ire Diminishinjj; — I'ncertain
Water Stages — Fnormous Lumber Transportation — -First and Last Boats Each
Year — River Transjiortation Lines — The "Envoy" — Clinton County's First Rail-
road— The <'alico Line— Chica;.io. I<i\va & Nebraska Railroad — Cedar Rapids &
Miss^inri Coniiiany — The Clinton Railroad Bridge— The Chicaso, Milwaukee &
St. Paul Railroad— The P.urlinirton R<inte— The Chicap). R<tck Island & PaciJie.

CIIAI'IKI: l.\ A<;RIcri/J TRAL INTERESTS 126

.\;rri<-idture and Lmnber the Base of Clintoii's Industrial Wealth — Pioneers In-
vited by Fertile Soil and Rich Timber T/ind — But TJttle Conservation of
.Natural Resoiu-ces— .\n Early Letter — Statistics in lS(;S-lS7.-)-i •»(>.") — County
Fair ,\ssiiciitions — The r>oWit1 Fair — -Present Oflicers.

< ilMli.lC \ i:i»lCA I lo.\ \1, l»iA LLol'.MKN'i (»F (LINTON COFNTY l.".-t

Iowa Broad-minded in her Educational Ideas — Earliest Schools in Clinton
County — The Lyons Schools — Early Opposition to Women Teachinir School — A
Lyftns .School Relic — Township Sclnxds — Early Clinton Schools — Erection of
Buildings I'lof. Ilcury S.-, bin— History of the Clinton Schools — Other Town
Schools -.Mrs. Pureed Tells of the llaily Sclmols of Clinton County — Tlie Pres-
ent-day Rural School-Present St;;ndinj; of Clinton County Schools — City and
'{'own Schools — (Jrand Totals in Cou'.ity — Rise and F.ill of the Lyons Female
( 'nllcire— Riverside Institnte-W.-nMbni;: CollejX(>.

CHAPTER XI — REI,I<;iOFS HISTORY OF THE ('OINIY l.-.ii

Early Settlers of True Christian I'ailli — First Preacher in the County — Father
Emersoji — Conteniporary Preacher.s — The Methodist Episcopal Churches — The
«'Iinf<in Churches I».'Witt M. 1'. Chnrch-Elwocl ("miani-he— Other :\rctlio-

CON Til NTS.

(list Churches — Catholic Churches of Clinton County -St. Iranaeus Parish —
St. BonifMce— St. .M.irys -SI. 1 'a trick's— Sacred Heart— St. Joseph's— I )('\Vitt
— St. Joseph's, Browns — St. Patrick's, Villa Nova — Petersville and Charlotte —
St.. Mary's, Bryant — Toronto and T,o^st Nation — SS. I'liilii) and .James. Crand
Mound — St. ColnnibkiU's — St. I'atrick's. Delniar — Weiton— Our Lidy ot
Angel's Seminary — St. .Joseph's Hospital — Mt. St. Cl.iro Academy — Concerning
the I'io- eer Pries! — I-'ather .Tom — Christian Churches — DeWitt Christian
Church— Seventh-day Tiaptist Church— Baptist Cliurchos— DeAVitt Baptists —
Clinton Baptist Church — Presl)ytorian Churches — Clinton I'rosbyterian Churcli
— The I'nited Presbyterian Church — Elvira United Presbyterian Church — Con-
gregational Church— Clinton — DeWitt — Episcopal Churches — Lyons Episcopal
Church — Evau.selioMl T.uthernn Church — St. Paul's — The ChiU'cli at liuena
Vi.'^ta — Grand Mound Congregation — Danish Evangelical Lutheran — Elvira
Lutheran Church — Evangelical Association — Reformed Churches — Lost Nation
Reformed Church — Wheatland Reformed Church — Clinton Universalist Church
— Christian Science Chui'ch — The Spiritualists.

CHAI'TKU Nil— SECIUOT AND BENEA'OLENT SOCIETIES IST

Ancient Free and Accepted Masons — Western Star Lodge No. 100 — Emulation
Lodge No. 2.55 — Order of the Eastern Star — Keystone Chapter No. 32 — Delta
Council No. 23 — Knights Templar — Scottish Rite Masonry — Masonry at Lyons
— DeWitt Masonic Bodies — Camauche Masons — Zeradatha I.od.ge No. 1S4 —
Monitor Lodge No. 3.30 — Harbor Lodge No. 556 — Independent Order of Odd
Fellows— Patriarchs Militant— Odd Fellows at Clinton— Eagle Lodge No. 8fi—
Shekinnh Lodge No. 42 — Other Lodges — Knights of Pythias — Other Fraternal
oVdors — Founding of the Two Woodcraft Orders.

CHAI'TEIt NI II— BENCH AND BAR OF CLINTON COUNTY 203

Early Lawyers in Clinton County — An Amusing Story — .ludgos of the District
Coiirt — I'erso'.ial Mention — First Courts — Grand .Jurors — Bounds of the Dis-
trict— First Case Entered — First Jury Trial— Early Law Practice — Some Early
L;i wyors— Present Active Attorneys in tiie Comity— The First B:ir Convention
in I own.

CHAPTER XIV— THE MEDICAL PROFESSION 220

Followers of Galen in the Vanguard of Civilization — Ra])id Advancement in the
Science of Medicine — High Rank of Clinton County Physicians — First Doctors
Here— Camanche— Lyons I'hysicians— Clinton Physicians— DeWitt — Clinton
County Medicr.l Society— -List of Registered Physicians.

CHAPTER XV— THE NEWSPAI'ERS OF THE COl NTV 23S

Importance of the Local I'ress — Clinton County's First Paper. The Lyons Mir-
ror— Still Published — Clinton and Lyons Newspnpers — Clinton Herald — Clinton
Bee— Clinton Anzeiger — Tri-City Labor Voice— Clinton County Advertiser — The
Merry War — Iowa Volkszeitun.g — DeWitt Newspapers— 01i.server—Cii ma uche
Journalism — Calamus News]);ipfrs — Lost Nation Journalism — Wheatland News-
p;iliors— Papers at Delmar^Charlotte Papers.

CHAPTER NVl— ELK RIVER TOAA'TsSHIP 247

One of the Six Original Townships — Early Settlers — Later Comers — Educa-
tional— First School Strong Gt'i-uinii Eleuipnt — Early Alills—f 'rimes — Towns

CONTENTS.

of Elk Itiver Township— Alniont — lljiuutnwn — Aiulover — Teeds (irove — Elk
Kiver .Tniii-tion.

CIIAI'THU XVII I>KKI' ("KEEK TOWNSHIP — __ 253

lis l!..iiii(l:iri('s— I>»M-iv.ition of N.inio— nosoription of Oooso T>ake — A Spec'tjicle
(if I >:i//.Iiiii.' He.iiit.v — EmiI.v ScttloimMit — Notnhle Events — Goose Ljiko — The
First rnstoffice — 4iic'irpiir:ition — Present Officers — Business Houses — Bx\vjint —
I'l.ittinu'— E:iriy Mcirli.ints— I're.-eMt Business Interests.

CHATTi:!; Will W A ri:KI«»KI> roWNSIlII* _: 259

Ms Terrilniy— Streiins — First Settler — Aliiiiiihiiice of (Jsiine — The Air Line
Bonni — First School — First Tavern — Charlotte — I'lattinir — Chnrches — Kural
Itoiites I niur I Miration — Business and Professional I >ireciory — Browns — Peters-
ville.

rilAITEU XIX — BI.OO.MFIEI.I) TOWNSHIP 2*;.-,

nr^ani/.ation — Early Settlers — Many Canadians — Township Orifiiually Tiinher-
les.s — Pioneer Ainnsenients— Far From .Markets — Early Primitive ("'onditions —
Early Churches — Horse Thieves — Del mar — Plattinj; — Railroads — First Mer-
chants—Postmast«'rs — Doctors — lyodires— New Century Club Library — .News-
papers— Incorporation of the Town — Mayoi-s — Waterworks- I'.usiness Dire/tory
— r>elmar Produce Comjtany.

CIIALTEI: X.\ — P.KIM »K FIELD T<>WNS11IP ^ 271

l.oc.ition — Early History — Early Settlers Mostly Native-born Americans — Rail-
road— El wood — Pl.ill iiiL'' I'irst Mrrcliants — Postollicc — LodflPS — Population —
Busin«'ss Directory.

CHAPTER XXI -SHARON TOWNSHIP 273

<M-pinization of tin- Township —First Settlements — Swede bnrsians — German
Dnnkards — Lost Nation — Origin of .Name — Plattiu}: of Town — Churches —
.\ew.siijiper.s — Incorporation — Mayors — Electric Lights — Business Directory.

CIIAPTEI: XXII — LIBERTY TOWNSHIP 277

P.oimdary of the Township — Settled at an Early Date — The Pioneers — Itail-
road — Toronto — Early .Mills^Early" .Merchants — Church — Postmasters — Lodiies
— Present Business Interests — Incoriioration — Officers — Ftilities.

rilAI'IKK XXIII P.EKLIN roWNSllIP :2S(l

I'ornierly Includeil in Olive I'ownsliiii — First Election-^Boundaries of the

Township — Early Settlers — No Town in the Township C 1 lOducational

Facilities.

< NAIIFK .\XI\ UELTON TOWNSHIP 281

Boimdarie.s — Orjranization — Fertile Soil — Physical Chara<'teristics of the Land
Early Settlers Scvenlh-ilay P.aptists — WeIlon--First Merchants — Doctors —
Pres<'nt Business Men Incorpor.Mion IM'osent Oljiccrs — IKlo P.nsiness Di-
rectory.

CHAPTER XX\ W.\SIII.\(;TnN TnWNSlIll' :iS4

Bonntlrry mi Oryani/atioii Surface — Settled at an Early Period — Prosperous
Early Settlers — Catholic Clinnh Well i'nltivatcd Fainis No Tnwns or Vil-
lajres. but Many Schools :ind ('bnrches.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XVr— CENTER TOWNSHIP L'^'fi

r.nimd.ify .111(1 Oi i-'.iiiiziition — Siirf.icc — Settled iit ;in early Period — ProsixM'ous
.\,i:riiiiltur;il ("oiiiimiiiity — The (".ilico Kailro.id — Hut Little Liti«alioii — Elvira
— Plattins — Piistiiiasters — < 'Iniic lies — F'l-esent P.usiiiess Interests.

ciiArriK \x\ II iiAMi'siiiKi: TowNsiiir 2.s'-)

()r.ir;iniz;iti<i!i .niil I'iisl Klection — Early Settlement by (Jeruians and Irish —

l'"iisl Settlers — (imd ScIiiupIs Xn 'ruwiis nr \'ill:iues.

cHAi'TKi; xwiii sriii.xc \ai.i.i:y 'lowxsiiir u:iu

I.i'st 'rdwiisiiiii Kniiiicl ill llie County— Its I5(uiml:iries— Settled at an ICjirly
Date — \'alii;ilili' l\-n ms - K.iilw.iy Systems.

CllAl'TKU XXIX LINCOLN ToWNSIlir 1>,)1

Its Kreetlon by the Hoard of County Cuiiiiiiissioners — Boundary — Area —

Srreiiiis— Xaiueil After the Martyr President — I'irst Lle-tioii.

CHAl'Tint XXX CAMANCilK 'roW.XSIIll' 211:2

One of the Original 'i'owiisliips — I ts I'.nuiularies Defined — Early Settlers — City
of Canianche — An Interestini; History — Its Chaniiiiif; Situ;;tiirn — Ori;.'i'i of
the Tnwi' — Dr. Georw I'eek — Survey of the T<iwii — The Camanche & Coimcil
P.luffs Railroad — Crossing the Mi-ssissijipi — Cainauehe as the County Se;it —
First Invents at Canianche — Incoriioral inn History — V\'harfmaster — Early lUisi-
ness Interests of Canianche — Present I>usiii(>-;s Interests — Postotfice History —
liurglars at Camanche.

CHAPTER XXXI— EDEN TOWNSHIP 3(X)

A Fine Section of Country — Its Situation — Railro:;d — Streinis — Pioneer Set-
tlers— First vSchool — Murders — Low Moor — First Houses — Postofllce and Post-
masters— The I'nder.sround Riilroad — Stni'niy .Tordan — First Merchants —
Newspapers — Doctors — Fire of lOoT — Iiirnrperatiou — I'.usiiK'ss Directory —
Ma lone.

CHAPTER XXXII— DE WITT TOWNSHIP 3C5

Organization and Roundaiy — N'aluahle Farm Lands a'.d Iniidoved Ilomt'ste ds
— First Attempt at Settlement — Prominent Pioneers — Interesting Incidents —
First Events — Town of DeW.itt — Location as County Seat — First House — First

Log Court House — Population in 1844 — First Merchants, Lawyers and Physi-
cians— Coming of Railroads — Churches — Pcstotfice Record — Library — Iowa As-
sessment Mutual Insurance Comiiany — Clinton County .Agricultural Society —
First Newspaper — iHcoriiorai ion -Mayors — Present Oflicers — Fraternal Organi-
zations— Professional and Business Directory.

CHAI'TKK NNN II I— ORANGE TOWNSHIP 318

Area and Boundary— Early S(?ttlers— W. R. Barner's Account of the Towiishij)
— (rrand Mound — Incorporation — Churches — Postoffice History — T'.usiiiess and
Professional Directory — Past Mayors and Present Town Officers.

CHAPTER NXXIV— OLIVE TOWNSHIP 322

Organization — Original Boundaries — First White Settler — The Dutton Family
— An Early Lawyer and Teacher — Boimes Trail — Ferry — Calamus PostofHoe—
First Events in the 'rownshiit -.Tohn Robinson's Operations — Murder of Mrs.

CONTENTS.

lIstiRT Aljier — The Town of (".ilniuus — IiiciirpiuMliKii OtlicHis — rnslnffico —
Trpsont I?nsiiu»ss K.-iftors — A Disjistroiis Fire.

I ilAi ii.K .\.\X\ .■>i'i:i.\i, iiix K TOWNSIill' oli'-*

Urifjin of .Nniue— Ur;;;iniz;itio:i — Streauis — Early Settlement — Town of Wlieat-
Innd — Post office— Early Merchants — Serious Fires — Railroad — Incorporation
History— Oflicers — War Koconl AV;ir rriccs — AVafi-r \V<ii-ks— Present Business
Interests — Sliort Reminiscences.

(•iiai'Ti:r xxxn 1 t.ank.s .\.\n i;a.\ki.\(; in the cointv 335

iJanks a Necessity — The Fir.«<t Bank in Clinton County — First National Bank
of Lyons — Lyons Saving's Bank — Iowa State Savings Bank — Clinton Bankinj: —
Clinton Saviniis I'.ank — City National liank — Merchants National Bank — I'eo-
pU's Trust and Savinjrs Bank — Wheatland — German Trust and Savings Bank —
Exchaufie Bank .of Calamus — Farmers Savings Bank, Calamus— Citizens Sav-
iufrs B.ank. Low Moor — Teeds Grove Savings Bank — Citizens Bank of Lost Na-
tion— First National Bank. Lost Nation — Elwood Savings Bank — Farmers &
Merchants Bank of Welton— First National Bank of DeWitt— Farmers & Citi-
zens Savings Bank, DeWitt — DoWitt Siwings Bank — Chra'lotte Savings Bank —
Farmers ;ind Merchants Savings Bank, Charlotte — Goose Lake Savings Btink —
I'eoiilos SMvinirs Bank. Delmar — Peoples Savings Bank. (Jrand >found — P:!nic
ofls.-.T.

CHAI'TEK XXXVII— CLINTON AND LYONS ;',41>

Situation of Clinton — Poi)nlation — First Town Platted Called X^ew York — Iowa
Land Company — Original Plaiting — Additions to the Plat — Clinton's Forerun-
ner— Municipal History of Clinton— First Council Meeting — Mayors Since In-
corporation— Present City Officers — The City Parks — Fire Department — Police
Dejiartment — Postollice History — Water Works — Gas Works— Streat Railways
— Litigation .-nid Contents — Telephone P.usiuess — Public Libraries — (irand
Army of the Republic— Ladies of the Grand Army — The Two High Bridges —
Cemeteries — Young Men's Christian As.sociation — Hospitals — Clinton Industries
—The I-umber Industry— Eai-ly Mills — Lamb & Sons — Young & Co. — Cliitrn
Lnii!'"'i' '■" A[i<<ivv;ippi i;i\i'r InvLring Co. — "Mills Ojerated at Lyons — Gardi-
ner. Batchelder & Welles— Da \ id .loyce — Curtis Bros. & Co. — Lyons — From
IS.'il to 1S.~»7 — Ringwood — Lyons Incorporated — Postollice — IMiblic Library —
Gr;ind .\rn:y of the Kei>nblic - Amiexvtion to Clintr-n — Defeat AckumvlcMlged.

< HAl'lKK \NN\1I1 MISCELLANKOrS ITEMS OF INTEREST ;iS«>

Village Plats of the County- -The Fuderground Railroad — Old Settlers' Meet-
ing.s — Population of Cii'iton County — Saloons in Clinton C:un)ly— Torn. .does —
M«'morable Ttunado of isuo— storm of lS7r.— Storm of ISDS— "Bigelow's Mint''
— Di'ys of Moundng — Death of President Garfield — Deitli of Pr«'sident McKin-
ley — Pioneer Detectives — Hanging of Wancn — Hanging of Barger — Ilimr's
Hanging.

• IIAl 11:1: XNXIX— RE.MINISCENCES 428

Whoatland Fifty Years Ago — Retrospection and Rennniscences — It Might Have
I'lfrii -.\n Examjile in Patriotism — We Still Live A Kciinniscence of Earl.v
Days — \dt(' on I'rohibitorv .\nicndment.

HISTORICAL INDEX

Agatha Hospital. Clinton 371'

Agricultural Interests 126

Aid and Relief Societies 97

Alger. :\Irs. Esther, Murder of 326

Almont 250

Ancient Free and Accepted :\Ia-

sons 187

Andover 251

Area of Clinton County 29

Attorneys, Present List of 217

Auditors 82

Banks and Banking 335

Baptist Churches 170

Barger. Hanging of 426

Barker, A. P 210

Bench and Bar 203

Benevolent Societies 187

Berlin Township 280

Bethel A. :\I. E. Church, Clinton 155

Bigelow's ;Mint 413.

Black Plume Rangers ' 93

Bloomfield Township 265

Board of County Commissioners 85

Board of Supervisors 74

Boat Statistics 115

Bollinger, James W 210

Booth. .John B 211

Bounty for Soldiers 98

Brannpn, William F 206

Brick Court House at DeWitt 64

Bridge, Clinton Railroad 124

Brookfield Township 271

Bryant 257

Buell, Elijah 46

Buena Vista Ev. Luth. Church 180

Br.rlington Route 125

Calamus 327

Calamus M. E. Church 157

Calamus Newspapers 244

Calamus Postofiice 324

Calico Line 121

Camanche 293

Camanche as the County Seat 295

Camanche Baptist Church 170

Camanche Ferry 52

Camanche Journalism 244

Camanche Masons 195

Camanche M. E. Church 157

Camanche Physicians 221

Camanche Township 292

Carnegie Library, Clinton 362

Catholic Churches 158

Cedar Rapids & Missouri River Line 122

Census, 1834 27

Center Township 287

Change of Township Lines 43

Charlotte 2G0

Charlotte Papers 246

Charlotte Savings Bank 345

Chicago, Iowa & Nebraska Line 121

Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Line 124

Chicago Northwestern Railroad 123

Ciuc^'iio. Rnck I.slir.ul .';: I'acifi? 12.5

Christian Churches 16S

Christin'i Science Church l.v.l

Citizens Rank of Lost Ntition 04:!

Citizens Saviuics Rank, Low Moor 342

City and Town Schools 147

City XMtiniKil B:inlc. Clinton SoH

Civil War .S:>

Clerks of the Court S4

Clinton and Lyons .'540

Cli'MdU Anzeigcr I'M

Clinton Baptist Chnn-]i__ ._ 17:.*

Clinton C;ii'no,!j:io T.ilu'.-n'v 'MI

HISTORICAL IXDKX.

Cliiitnii ('niictiTit's .!'■>''>

Cliiitiiii ('liristi.-m Churcb K!"^

Clinton. City Tjirks 353

Clinton Con;;rosatioii;i] ("iiun-li ITT

Clitton County Advert is<>r -41

Clinton County Afiriculturnl Associa-
tion K>1

Ciiiiluii Cniiiily. Arc;i of -!•

Clintou County. K.irly Settleuient — 4i:

Clinton County Cu.inls '.>!

Clinton Coui'ty .Mcilical Society "Jii'.i

Clinton Cfiunly < )rj;.inizeil 41

Clinton County Ucsinient *.•">

Clinton County Soldiers '.lit

Clinton County's First Itailroad l:j1

Clinton Danish I'.v. T.ulli. Cliunli ISl

Clinton Kiiis«-o|iaI Ciniiili ITS

Clinton Kvanjieliral Association 1.S2

Clinton Tire Department IVA

T'linton. Kirst Claim at r>l

Clinton tlis Worics '.\~}~

Clinton Herald 23S

Clinton Ilnsiiitals 3T2

Clinton Industries ?>72

Clinton Lunilier Co :\~\\

Clintou. Mayors of oHi

Clinton Metliodism 1.":!

Clinton. Municipal History :'..'')1

Clinton National Raidv 33S

Clinton Newsjiapers 2'\^

Clinton riiysicians 21'!

Clinton I'olice Department ;'."')4

Clinton County. I'opulation of 80S

Clinton Postoffice ."..V)

Clinton rroshyterian Church 1T.">

Clinton. Tresent City Officers M.VJ

Clinton Public Libraries .",01

Clinton Pailroad Hridfre 12 1

Clinton S;ivint:s Paidc .",:!"i

r'iiiilK'i .^diMol Snp(>rintendents 141

Cli'iton Schools. lOarly V',s

Clinton Street P-iilways ."^HS

Clinton 'rclcMhone Piusiness :5('iM

Clinton riHvcrs-ilist Clnin-h IS)

Clinton W'icr Works .•^-.c,

Clinton W.'lls :•,:'.

Coinndssioiier I'e''f>iiN 72

Comndssloners. County S."

rnnimissioners. DrainaRe S?,

Commissioners. School-fund .S3

Company A. Eighth Reg 94

Company A. Fifteenth Keg !)4

Company A. Sixteenth Ileg !)4

Comi)any A. Sixth Cavalry !)7

Company F. Sixteenth Keg J>4

Company L. Forty-ni'ith Keg l(t2

Congregational Churches 1T<!

Congress, Kei)resentatives in T'.)

Coroners s.~»

County Attorneys 83

County Commissioners 85

County Finances 75

County Governing Power 43

Count.v (iovernmeut, I'a.st and Pres-
ent (12

Count.v .Tails 70

Count.v Judges ,s:5

County Officers. First 41

Count.v Organized 41

County Poor I'ann 71

County Seat at Camanche 2'..".

Comit.v Seit Eleotioi r>7

Cotmty Seat Located 43

County Seat Ke-Locnted 43

Count.v Seat Kemoved to Clinton (>5

County Supervis(u-s si!

Count.v Surveyors S4

County Treasurers 84

Court House lllstoiy . <;2

Court House. Present <>!>

Crossing the Mississippi 295

Curtis Bros. & Co 382

Days of Mourning 414

Death of President Cnrfield 415

Death of President IMcKinley 41 S

Deei) Creek Township 25:',

Delmar 2f«7

Delmar M. E. Church ir,s

Delmar Newsi>aiiers 24()

DeSoto, Fernando 25

DeWitt as the Seat of .Justice 311

DeWitt Rnptist Church 171

DeWitt Ciiristian Chni-i-h KV.)

DeWitt Congregational ('linrcli 177

DeWitt F.iir i:'.l

HISTORICAL INDEX.

DeWilt. lucdi-poi-iitHiii of Ml t

DeWitt Masonry I'.M

DeWitt, Mayors of 31.".

DeWitt M. K. Church 1".

DeWitt Named 7;;

DeWitt Observer 248

DeWitt I'hysicians '22(>

DeWitt, roi'iUation in 1S44 811i

DeWitt I'ostortice Ket-onl 'SV.i

DeWitt Public Library 818

DeWitt Savings Bank 844

DeWitt, Town of 31(J

DeWitt Township .305

DeWitt U. P. Church 174

DeWitt Well 34

Diamond .To I^ine llti

District Court. First Term 218

District Court Judges 204

Dillon, John F 205

District Attorneys 83

Domestic Life 59

Drainage 32

Drainage Commissioners .S8

Drift Plains 31

Earliest Schools 134

Early Clinton Schools 138

Early Explorations 25

Early Justice Courts 51

Early Saw-Mills 377

Early Settlement of Clinton County_ 46

Eastern Star 18S

Eden Township 300

Educational Development 134

Elijah Buell 46

Elk River Township 247

Elk River Township Schools 248

Elk River Township Settlers 248

Elvira 287

Elvira Lutheran Church 182

Elvira U. P. Church 174

Elwood 271

Elwood M. E. Church 1,^6

Elwood Savings Bank .348

Emerson, Rev. Oliver 1,50

English Emigrant of 1850 50

Episcopal Churches 178

Evangelical Luthoian <liiuthes 17'.t

Example in Patriotism 434

Exchange Bank of Calamus .342

Fair Associations i:'>o

Farm Statistics 12S

Farmers and Merchants Bank, Wel-
ton 843

Farmers and Merchants Savings
Bank. Charlotte 345

Farmers Savings Bank, Calamus 342

Father Emerson 1.50

Ferry at Camanche 52

Ferry Boat at Lyons loc,

Finances of County 75

Financial .Statement, 1009 77

First Bank in County 3.35

First Bar Convention in Iowa 217

First Claim at Clinton 51

First Clinton County Attorney 215

First County Officers 41

First Courts 213

First Grand Jurors 41

First Jury Trial 213

First M. E. Church, Clinton 1.58

First Minister in County 1.50

First National Bank, DeWitt .344

First National Bank, Lost Nation 848

First National Bank, Lyons .330

First Railroad 121

First School Tax 73

First Settler 40

First Settlers .53

Founding of Woodcraft Orders 201

Geographical Features 20

Geological Description by Townships 34

Geology of Clinton County 20

German Trust and S.ivings Bank,

Wheatland 341

Goose Lake 250

Goose Lake Channel ,32

Goose Lake Savings B;ink 345

Grand Army of the Republic 804

Grand Jurors, First 41

HISTORICAL INDEX.

Cniiul .Mnmid i\1U

(Jnind .Miiiiiiil Innnnnnel Church IM

(Jnint. J.iiiK's l!os

Il.iwUi'.vc ICnii^rtTs 1)3

H.iiiipsliin' Tnwiisliip 2S0

Il.-iii^iiiU iif It.ir^rer 420

Ilangiuj: of Iliiier 421!

IIiin>:iii^ (if W.irren 421

Iljiuntdwn 250

n:i.vos. Wjilter I 208

Hii-'li Hridfies 365

Miner's Ilniifiinfr 420

TInrso Tliipves 207

Hoiisi'. A. J 210

Ilnwit. Andrew 211

Independent Order of Odd Fellows 196
Indiiins, Conduct of 4<j

Indians lieuioved 27

Inflated Values 260

Iowa Land Company 340

lowan l>rift I'lain 31

Iowa State Savings Bank. Lyons 33S

Iowa Territory 25

Ifiwa \olkszeitunj< 242

Jackson, Douglas V 211

Jails 7,,

Jean. Kcv. Frederick C 107

J<>y<e. David 381

Judges 83

Judges of the District Court 204

Judges' Uecords 7-_>

Justice Courts. Karly 51

Keokidv Nortlieni Line lit;

Kiiiglits r.f rytliias 2(J0

Knights Tcnijilar 1S<»

Ladies of the <;. A. K 365

Land) & Sons ;;77

Laying Ont of a IJoad lu'.i

Leltingwell. A. J 200

Lofliiigwcll, William K 2lo

Lil>erty Township 270

Lillrnlii 'rnwiisllip 291

Lion Company 94

Locating tlic Cdimty Seat 4;>

Lost Nation 274

Lost Nation Catholic Church 105

Lost Nation Journalism 244

Lost Nation Reformed Church 1S3

Louisiana Purchase 25

Lowlands. :Missi.ssippi 30

Low Moor 302

Low Moor M. E. Church 158

Lmnher Industry 371;

Lyons 383

Lyons & Iowa Central Route 121

Lyons, Annexation to Clinton 387

Lyons Congregational Church 170

Lyons Episcopal Church 178

Lyons Evan. Luth. Church 17!)

Lynns Female College 148

Lyons Ferry Boat 100

Lyons, Incorporation of 385

Lyons, Mayors of 385

Lyons M. E. Church 152

Lyons Mirror 240

Lyons Newspai)ers 2.3S

Lyons Physicians 222

Lyons Postoffice 380

Lyons Presbyterian Church 172

Lyons I'uhlic Library 380

Lyons Savings Bank 337

Lyons School Relic 137

Lyons Schools 135

Lyons Street Railways 358

Mail Routes 107

M.ilono 3^4

Markliam's Tavern 2OO

Ma.sonic Order is7

Masonry at Lyons 193

.Modicil Profession 030

Medical Society, Clinton County 220

Meetings. War 91

Merchants National Bank. Clinton___ .340
Mercy Ilo.spital. Clinton .370

IlISTOKRAL lM)i:X.

.Mrtciinildtry •57

.Mctlunlist i;|iiscu|(.il ( Miurclies 1.">12

Mcxicin W.u- ' M>

Mit.-lifll. Cill.crt C. It -'!»!»

Milil.iiy History of County Mt

Mills :it Lyons :{8(>

.Miscclhincnns ('onmi.inils !)!)

.Miscollanciins Items 3S9

Mississijipi Discovered 26

Mississijijii T.owl.iiuls 30

Mississiiijii Kiver Logging Co 380

Mt. St. Clare Aeadeniy 1G7

Murder of Mrs. Alger 32G

Murders in Kden Township 301

Murray. Saniucl It 21o

Natural Features 29

Newsimpers of the County 238

New York 351

Niagara Limestone 34

Northern Steamboat Line 11(5

Odd Fellows IOC

Oflicers. County, Sjilary 78

Old Clinton Wells 33

Older Drift Plain 31

Old Settlers' Meetings 30fi

Olive Township 323

Olive Townsliip, First Events 324

Orange Township 318

Order of the Eastern Star 188

Organization of the County 41

Our Lady of Angels Seminary 160

Panic of 1857 346

Past County Government 02

Patriarchs Militant 106, 198

I'eoples Savings P.ank, Delmar 345

Peoples Savings Bank, Grand Mound 346
Peoples Trust and Savings Bank,

Clinton 340

Periods of Iowa History 27

Petersville 263

Petersville Catholic Church 164

Physicians. List of Registered 231

Pioneer Detectives 419

Plats of Towns and \illages 3S<.»

Pleistocene .System 37

Poor Farm 71

Population of Clinton County 398

Prt'sbyterian ('inn-clies 172

Present Attorneys in County 217

Present Couit Mouse (»9

Present-day Itural School 144

Press of Clinton County 238

Proclamation of President McKin-

ley 100

Proliihitory Amendment, Vote on 442

Pythian Order 2(M)

Itailroading 104

Railroad, The First 121

Railroads vs. Rivers 113

Rain Statistics 40

Itecorders 84

Reformed Churches 183

Registered I'hysicians 231

Relatiim of Strata 33

Relief Societies 97

Religious History 150

Reminiscence of Early Days 439

Reminiscences 428

Reminiscences of the River 111

Removal of Indians 27

Representatives 80

Representatives in Congress 79

Retrospection 430

Richman. .Tacoh S 209

Ringwood 385

River Reminiscences 111

Itiverside Institute 149

River Traffic 118

River Transportation Lines 116

Robinson, John W. S 326

Royal and Select .Masters 189

Royal Arch Masons 188, 194

Rural Schools, Present-day 144

Sacred Heart Church, Clinton 161

St. Boniface Catholic Church 160

St. Colnmbkiirs Church. Hughes 165

St. Irenaeus Catholic Church, Clin-
ton 159

HISTORICAL INDEX.

St Josephs Church, DeWitt 162

St. .T<is«>pli's Ilospitiil 167

St. .Miiiy's Church. Hrviint 165

St. .Mnry's Church. Clinton 160

St. Patricks Church. Clinton 161

St. r.itricks Cluircii. lU'lninr lOO

St. r,itrick'.>* Cliurch. Vilhi Nova 164

St. Paul's Kv. Luth. Church 180

S.>*. l'hili|> and .Tanie.s Church, Grand

•Mound — 16o

Salary of County Officers 78

Saloons in Clinton County 398

School-fund Coniniissioners 83

S<-ho(>I Statistics 148

School Superintendents 82

School Superintendents, Clinton 141

School Tax "3

Schools at Lyons 135

Schools. City and Town 147

Schools. Earliest 134

Schools, Present Standing 14G

Scottish Kite Ma.sonry 100

Secret Societies 187

Senators 79

Settlement of Whites 27

Seventh-I^ay Baittist Church 160

Seven' Winter of 185G 105

Sharon Town.ship 273

Sheriffs 82

Silurian System 34

Snow Statistics 40

Soldiers Aid and Helief Societies 07

Soldiers Rounty OS

Spanish-American War 100

Sfiiritualists 1S5

Si.rinu' Kock Township 320

Spring N'alley Township 200

State Representatives 80

State Senators 79

Statistics. School 14S

Steainboating 104

Storm of lS7r> 410

Storm of 1808 412

Stowr«. J. S 323

Strata. Relation of 33

Stratigrai)hy .33

Superintendents Clinton Scliools 141

Su[ierinfendents of School 82

Supervisors SO

Su])ervisors, Proceedings of 74

Surveyors 84

Tax and Valuation 1877 76

Tax Report, 1840 76

Taxation. 1851 73

Teed's (Jrove 251

Teed's Grove Savings Bank 342

Territorial liepresentatives 80

Territorial Itoads Surveyed 42

Territory of Iowa 25

Tlie Calico Line 121

The "P:nvoy" 118

The Pioneer Priest 167

Topographical Features 20

Tornado of I860 309

Tornadoes 399

Toronto 278

Toronto Catholic Church 165

Township Lines. Changes of 43

Traffic, River 118

Transportation 104

Treasurers 84

Twenty-sixth Regiment 95

Uncertain Remuneration 108

T'ndergroimd Railroad 301

T'nderlying Formations 33

T'nion Reformed Cliurch 18:^

T'nitetl Presbyterian Church 174

T'niversjilist Church 184

Valuation and Tax, 1877 76

Vanderhurg 73

Village Plats 388

Vote on Prohibitory Amendment 442

Wapsipinicon Lowlands 31

War Meetings 01

Warren. Hanging of 422

HISTORICAL INDEX.

WMithinf: ('(illepe 14!) Wheiiflaiul, Fires at 331

Wasliiiif^tdii Tdwnsliip liN-i Wlif itlaiul XowsjiaiKn's 245

Watei'foid TowiishiiJ 2oS Wheatland Itefunuod Church 184

Waterman, Charles M 200 V.'he:tlan(l, IiPU!i:iisce:ices of 333

Weather Talilc 38 While Colhir Line llO

WHls. Old <-liiit<.H .'!3 William Pitch Well 33

Wclton liN2 Wdlf lUiu-'ty 73

Wclton Catholic Church vr, Woodcraft Orders, Founding of 201

\\('ll<in Colony 55

Wclton i^eventh-Day r.aptisi ('Inin-li ICM Y

Wolton Township 2S1

Wharfmaster. Camanche 297 Toung; Men's Christian Association. 303

Wheatland 330 Young. W. .7. & Co . .378

\nio;itland Fifty Yenrs Ago 428

BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX

Ackerman, George G. 526

Adrain, Julius 1128

Ahrens, John B. 992

Aiknian, E. M. 1098

Albright. A. J. 501

Albright, Mrs. Tobitha D. 500

Alden. Charles F. 878

Allen, Lucius P. 466

Ambrose, John P. 1012

Anderson, Hans 880

Anderson, James W. 1130

Anderson. Thomas 498

Andresen, Christian 861

Ankeny. Augustus L. 464

Ashford, William D. 460

Ashford. William R. 459

Ashpole, Henry 785

Atzen, John M. 1014

Babcock, James O. 999

Barber, Albert A. '- 904

Barber, A. E. 648

Barber, George W. 520

Barber, William R. ^—r.^ 640

Barnum, James H. , 1112

Barr, C. V. 693

Bather, .John R. 544

Bauer, Charles H. 1072

Becker, Henry 672

Beeby, Charles W. 922

Beeby, Harry E. 949

Behr, Hans F. C. 996

Bendtschneider. John F 937

Benedict, James C. 737

Berner, Albert H. 521

Berst, Carl B. 1009

Bingham, Charles C. 794

Blake, Charles A. 608

Blodt, John J. 836

Blumer, .Joseph F. 944

Blunk. Hans C. 525

Blunt. Arthur W. 908

Boardman, Norman 496

Bohart, Charles S. 610

Borbeck, Joseph 862

Bormann, Louis J. 801

Bousselot, Henry E. 566

Bowers, Henry F. 552

Brandenburg, John C. 1042

Brick, Conrad 621

Briggs, Stephen ,_ 484

Broderick, James 765

Broomfeldt, Lewis C. 958

Broxam, Benjamin 891

Brumer, Robert G. 775

Buech, Charles 940

Buell, Elijah 575

Buell, Langworthy J. 972

Buell, William E. ^__ 574

Buennig, Claus 605

Burke, Thomas J. 643

Busch. George C. 519

Butzloff. F. L. 468

Buxton, Perry T. 655

Cahill. Patrick 1126

Cain, Edward L. 1026

Carlin, :\I. F. 661

Carroll. William H. 876

Carstensen, Julius 553

Cavey, Matthew B. 527

Chandler, Esek B. ____; 616

rhai)nian, Lee '. 1138

Chase, Charles W. 869

Christensen, Engle J. 540

Christensen, Hans H. 947

Christensen, Peter _. ^-, . 896

Christian, Madison L. 1050

BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX.

Christiansen. Carl J. 993

Clancy. .John 651

Clapp. John W. 549

Clark. .James B. 931

Clark. William B. 938

('l.ins4M). C.-irl C. ^ 71(1

Clausen. Engver N. "90

Claussen. Claus .1. 4.^)4

Clinton Business College 844

Clinton Sugar Refining Co. 878

Cole. Ansel O. 817

Cole. Charles W. 595

Collins. Seth L. 1088

Connole. Cecil V. 743

Conrad. Charles C. 750

Conrad. Harold F. 752

Conrad, J. C. & Sons 750

Cook. Alfred L. 1063

Cook. Edmund L. 933

Cook, John B. 1022

Cooper, Robert D. 777

Cornish, Oscar P. 1084

Correll, Alf E. 848

Corson, Truelove M. 995

Cossins, Horace M. 959

Crampton, William B. 1015

Creger, John Henry 1073

Cressey. John H. 1136

Cressey, Robert E. 508

Creveling. Samuel 770

Crockett. Harrison U. 536

Crockett, Samuel Y. 536

Cummings. Langdon J. 580

Cunningham, John 813

Curtis. Charles F. 694

Curtis. George M. 445

Curtis. Liman J. 634

DeLange. James 701

Detlef. Julius 613

Dexter. Horatio R. 884

Dice. Bruce 1106

Dice, Helen 1106

Dice, Samuel 1106

Dickey. John W. 1113

Diebner. Emil 766

Dieckmann. William L. 820

Dicrks. Ili-nry 1177

Dierks, Henry W. 669

Dilley. Sebastian C. 597

Disbrow. Martin A. 1096

Dixoon. John 1139

Dolan. James E. 1008

Dolan. John 1035

Dolan, Martin 1035

Duer. Peter C. 510

Dulany. George W., Jr. 747

Duley, Joseph I. 1141

Dunlap, John W. 997

Dutton, Jerome 584

Dutton. O. L. 680

Dutton, Lorenzo D. 624

Eastman, Lauren C. 542

Eaton, Ebenezer 854

Eaton, William D. 854

Edens. .John H. 632

Eggers. Hans 1057

Ellis, Frank W. 866

Ellis, Lyman A. 867

Evans. John W. 829

F.iirchild, D.-ivid S. 1000

Fallesen, Peter 1116

Farrell, Peter 561

Farrell, Thomas 1045

Fay, Clarence A. 863

Fay, Horace A. 973

Fay, Louis E. 973

Fegan, Josepli D. 984

Fields. Jesse S. .547

Flynn. Mathew 1027

Fox, Henry F. 654

Fox. John F. 1021

Frnhm. Charles M. n64

Gage, Frank 1023

Gage. Marshall S. B. 976

Galbraith. Henry G. 1056

Gallf)\vay. Daniel C. 1147

BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX.

Gardiner. Silas W. 456

Gelilsen, John J. lios

(Jeorne, Calvin H. S>S(t

Gibson. Richard .1. 798

Gluesing. Claus .1. 936

Gohlnian. Christoph J. 816

Gohlman, .John G. 499

Gohlniann, M.ithJMs T. S.")ti

Goodnow, Royal 1106

Gradert, Gustav 462

Green. Jacob 531

Grlebel, Henry C. 792

Grumstrup, Thomas D. 808

Grmnstrui), Walda :\1. 808, 832

Ifahn. Henry N. 63.t

Hale. Edward .T. 802

Hallinan. Edward L. 452

Hannaher. Thomas C. 782

Hanrahan. William F. 945

Hansen, Fred G. 477

Hansen. John C. 837

Hanssen. Eugene 741

Harrington, Andrew L. 1029

Harrington. Chaimcey S. 909

Hart. Claude D. 874

Hart, Edward. Jr. 529

Hart. Edward. Sr. 530

Hart. Paul D. 874

Hart. Reuben C. ■.^___ 841

Hartmann. August .__ TSO

Hasenmiller. William , 490

Hauke. Thomas E. ^ 687

Hayes, George V. 784

Hayes, Walter T. 571

Heflin, Benjamin J. ^ 846

Heie, Rev. Johanas J. . 744

Hemingway. Fred B. ^^^__ 470

Hennessy, Rev. :\T. J. . 963

Henningsen. B. H. A. . 920

Herkelman. William __1124

Hesse. Frank ,^ __:_ 649

Higgins, Israel 582

Hilbert. C. Henry 546

Hilbert, W. ^\. ,_ 1145

Hill. Olin E. ^_ ,828

Hines. William 650

Hinrich. August 1146

Iliuton. Thomas S. 810

Hoffmann, Jacob 1016

Holconih, Fred C. 557

Holmes. William 472

Honirighausen. George 641

Momrighausen, John F. 702

Homrighausen, .John X. 948

Hooks, Charles F. 828

Horstmann, Bismark C. 664

Horstmann, Gustav A. 746

Horstmann, H. F. 1__1142

Howes. Philip 604

Hughes, Richard 824

Hunter. Joseph 697

Hynes, .Michrel H. 1121

Illemann. M. H. 507

Ingebrigthsen, Peder 916

Ingwersen, Martin 77G

Ingwersen. Nicholas E. 611

Irwin, Clarence C. 1076-

Iten. Louis 1078

Jackson, .Julius M. 1110

Jaenicke. Adolph 739

Jameyson, Hiram E. 823

.largo, Charles ,_^ , 10.17

Jargo, William F. 1017

Jensen, Christ . ; .696

Joehnk, Henry C. ^^_^__, ^,^.,461

John. Howard D. ^ ,__ 831

John. :\rilo J. 830

Joiinson, Hans . -621)

.T.orgensen, Carl -,w--~ -797

.lorgensen. Soren . ^^ ^ = 971

•Joyce. William T. ,._.___1060

K , •

Kallenbach, John __^. __-.,638.

Ka.llenbach. Joseph , ._.__, 492

Ka,llenbach. Nick ^^ ._^.491.

Kehoe. Edward M. _.. ^ -853

Keiner. Louis C. 942

BIOGRAPHICAL INDEX.

Keith. Willis E. S47

Kelly Brothers 742

Kelly. David E. 1032

KHIy. J. A. 742

Kelly. John W. 617

Kelly. Lee C. 812

Kelly. P. H. 742

Kelly. Robert Bruce 788

Kelly. Samuel S. 448

Kelly. T. F. 742

Kelly. W. .1. 742

Kenney. Charles W. 821

Kershner. Frank O. 6.57

Kester, Carl John F. 504

Kinp. F. B. 818

Kistner. George P. 917

Klahn. Hugo 642

Klahn. Julius 658

Kimtzan. Henry 1134

Koons. William 480

Korn, Otto 881

Kramer. August 932

Krunipelmann. Clem 781

Kruse. Clans (Clintx)n) 865

Kruse. Claus 924

Kuebler. Conrad 629

Kuehn. William C. 988

Lamb. Artemus 684

Lamb. Chancy 731

Lamb. Garrett E. 676

Lamb. James D. 1030

Lamb. Lafayette 681

Langbehn. William O. 656

Lathrop. Charles H. 625

Lee. William 475

I^eedhan. Frank W. 700

Leedham, William 543

Leimbach. William 614

Lietz. John 860

Llndmeier. Henry 779

Ix)gan. John J. 762

Lohberg. Frank . 968

Ix)hberg. Franz . 1 969

Loofboro. Isaac N. 1007

Lubbers. John , 1028

Lund. Christian IHiO

Lund. Herman 675

Lund. John 676

Lund, Justus 675

Lund, Virtus 673

.McCarthy. Frank L. 793

.McCord, Elias S. 1086

McDermott. Frank J. 822

McGarry. W. A. 645

.McGinn, Francis P. 960

McKenna, William H. 773

McLaughlin. Very Rev. Edward J. __ 600

McLaughlin. Rev. P. V. 601

McMahon. Charles E. 758

McMillin. John W. 1094

.MacMiller, George 1044

MacguiJ;^^ Willi.-ini s.S2

Madden. Malchi Kane 890

Magnussen. Christ 453

Manion. Patrick H. 449

.Manning, Dennis C. 1135

:\Iartin. Hobart E. 839

Marx. Joseph 1107

.Mason, Martin 734

Mason. Peter 735

Matson. Eric C. 842

Matthiesen, Emil C. 1118

.Matzen, Frank J. 837.

.M.itztMi & II:iusen S:i7.

.May. Calvin D. 678

Meints. Christ 487

Meints. John 736

Melvin. .Matthew J. 803

-Messer. William W. 757

Meves. William .L .,___ 928

Meyer. Albert J. 479

.Miller. Charles V. 1041

.Miller. Edwin W. _, 1040.

Miller. John W. 826

.Miller. Peter J. 809

.Mitchell. Fred W. . 749

Moeszinger, Chris. 671

Morris, George 786

Mudge. Myron C. - 979

Mueller. Fred 1003

Mueller. Fred J. ..— 951

BIOGRAPHICAL IHDEX.

Mueller, Henry S. e22

Mulvihill. Kdward 511

Murphy, Patrick 1036

Murray. Rev. J. A 864

Naeve, Nicholas. Jr. 769

Nelson, Rev. .James J. 451

Newbern, Lester F. 538

Newniarch, William .__ 910

Nissen, Nis 764

Obert, Casin B. 1070

O'Connor, Thomas C. 1082

O'Dowd. Rev. Peter 1080

Ogden, James J. 1066

Olson, Edwin 567

Olson, Eli 565

Olson, Nils O. 494

Owens, Peter J. 806

Parker, Celinda 587

Pascal, Aylett L. 478

Pascal, Descartes L. 986

Peckhara, F. E. 878

Pelham, Cornelius H. 915

Penningroth, Henry 703

Perin, Noble 465

Peters, Henry C. 967

Petersen, Cornelius ^_- 929

Petersen, Hans H. 1090

Petersen, Nils 486

Petersen, Peter N. 763

Peterson. James 851

Phelps. George B. 534

Phillips. Dewitt H. 1106

Phillips, William 1106

Pingel, Herbert 524

Pingel. Otto D. 523

Porth, Charles J. 647

Porth, Henry 644

Porth, Yengle A. 533

Poston, William H. 814

Potter, J. Ward 789

Purcell, John E. 768

R:ind. Ri.hert N. 570

Rand, Robert W. 569

Rand. Samuel 569

Rand, William A. 569

Rands, The Four 568

Ranson, Edward 637

Rathie, William 1058

Rathje. John H. W. 618

Record, Aaron P. 965

Redden, William 759

Reihman, J. W. 474

Reimers, Fred 887

Rice. William S. 805

Riggs, Andrew J. 897

Riggs, John. Jr. 897

Riordan, Rev. D. 471

Ritter, Theodore C. 900

Rixon, Fred 753

l{(>ck, F. H. 688

Rock, J. F. 495

Roehling, William 515

Roennfeldt, Claus D. 962

Roennfeldt, Hans D. 962

Roennfeldt. Otto B. 961

Rogers, William 517

Rohwedder. Henry 560

Roscoe, Charles E. 1048

Rosland, Gunder J. 493

Ruggeberg, Lewis 1047

Russell, Amherst W. 1064

Russell, Friend E. 1065

Russell, Gideon A. 800

Russell. William E. 691

Rutenbeck, Edward 514

Sackrider. George W. 1004

Sadoris. Charles L. 555

Savage. Rollin H. 811

Schepers, August 1120

Schei)ers, Herman 1069

Schmidt, Ch.irlcs F. r»H!>

Schmidt, Claus H. 1104

Schmitt. Louis E. 666

Schoening. Frederick 1010

Schoening. Henry .1010

Schoenthaler. Charles 1127

Schoenthaler, John E. 971

Schroecler. Benjamin H. 1(»74

Schroeder. Chris 956

Schroeder, Jacob 906

Schroeder, Peter F. 1102

BrOGRAPHICAL INDEX.

Schunter. C. J. ^^2

Scott. Samuel C. 583

Scott. William W. 505

Seaman, Halleck W. 1092

Shaw. Fred B. 8.58

Shoecraft. Simon 740

Siegniund. William F. 57G

Siemsen. Rudolph F. 903

Simon, .lohn W. 906

Simpson, Andrew 564

Slapnicka. Frank 913

Smith. George A. 698

Smith, George C. — 689

Smith, George :\I. 603

Smith, John W. "795

Soenksen, Christ 660

Soenksen. :\Iartin C. 752

Spain. Cornelius 990

Spain. Michael J. 989

Spence, James H. 772

Steiner, Joseph G. 631

Stephenson, George W. 558

Stires, Charles 1053

Stockwell, Ira 1140

Stoffregen. Henry . 554

Stone, Augustus L. 729

Strove, John 578

Struve, William 1019

Stuedemann. Albert H. __1038

Suiulfrlin. Floyd L. SSn

Temple, Gilbert L. 988

Tlie Four Kjimls _._! uO"^

Thiel, Michael 760

Thompson, Daniel — 919

Thusen, Mathias M. "755

Thtisen, Peter M. 755

Toenningsen, Henry J. 579

Towl«>, I'iiiiK'Ms S. 87;")

Traver, William R. 894

Tritschler. Louis P. 528

Turner, John H. -.1 '668

Turner, Merritt G. __J 563

Tyler. Henry F. 592

Tyler. William A. _'J_:J— 952

Van Kpps. Aldon J. -__:Il_'____'Jl__1054

Vetter, August F. 541

Voss, Henry C. 982

Wadleigh. Erastus A. 512

Wadleigh, LeRoi B. 606

Walsh Bros. 1131

Walsh. Edmund C. _— 1132

Walsh. Mark A. L 1134

Walsh, James W. 1134

Walsh. Charles H. 1134

Walsh, Alfred E. 1134

Walsh, Eugene J. 1134

Warning, Henry 808, 840

Watkins, John B. 1034

Waugh, Birt 926

Wendel, Adolph 535

Wendel. .John G. 503

Weston, John C. 482

White. William 850

Wilke, Fred C. 859

Wilke, William A. 827

Willet. Charles H. 596

Willet. :\Irs. Flora 594

Williams. John ^^1___ 902

Wilson, George E. 550

Wilson. George E. . 886

Wilson. John L. 833

Wilson, William L. 599

Wirth. Alexander J. 1002

Wirth. John 1001

Witte, Frank 659

Witte, Fred 665

Wolfe. James B. 628

Wolfe. Jerry 843

Wolfe, Patrick B. 912

Work. Alexander 562

Work, Nis P. 607

Wulf. J. C. 1143

Wulf. Nicholas F. 872

Wurmke. Diedrich 1025

Wurmke. Herman F. 1024

Young, Edward E. ._! 893

Young. Joseph C. 888

Young. William E. x 662

Young, William J. .__^__, 48^,

•nir NEW VJVAK

rrV.IAC LlBiURY

iu.„^; .o.;ndations

BIOGRAPHICAL-Continued.

AUGUSTUS L. STONE.

In the book entitled ''Prominent Men of the Great West," pubHshed in
Chicago in 1894. is found the following biographical history of Augustus L.
Stone, the subject of this article. It was written by L. J. Gage, at that time
president of the First National Bank of Chicago and afterwards secretary of
the United States treasury under Presidi^nt McKinley. The acquaintance of
the two mentioned parties was formed in Rome. New York, while A. L. Stone
was attending the academy there. ■ ...

"Augustus Lisbon Stone, son of Aaron and Amanda (Parsons) Stone,
was born in Camden, New York, June 8, 1836. On the paternal side his
ancestors came from London. England, in 1635, and settled at what is now
Cambridge, Massachusetts, near Boston. The locality is yet known as the
Stone farm. The David Stone of that family who shouldered his musket
and- marched to Lexington on that 19th day of April, 1775, to repel the
British troops, and fight the first battle of the American Revolution, was a
direct ancestor of our Augustus Lisbon Stone. . . . .

"His mother's family, the Parsons, came from Oxfordshire, England,
with \\'illiam P\^nchon in 1631, and with him founded the first colony at
Springfield. Massachusetts. The motto, 'Hand Unquam Cedo,' inscribed
upon the scroll of the Parsons coat of arms, which was l)estowed by Charles
I, indicates a family characteristic which was displayed in the New England

descendants through successive generations. •

- ■ "The Stone family, including Aaron Stone and his wife, moved from
New England to the new settlement at-McConnellsville, New York. Avhich was
so named by Isaac Stone, its first postmaster, and grandfather of the subject
of this. sketch. The family afterwards moved to Camden, five miles farther
on. which was a more promising locality. Aaron and Amanda Stone had'

73^

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

three children, of whom Josiah Parsons Stone and Augustus Lisbon Stone

siirvivetl.

••The two boys attended the village schools and worked hard to help their
parents, and their parents strained every energy to give both their sons a
good education. The village printing office, which issued a weekly paper,
attracted the boys, and there they worked at odd hours, earning pocket money
and addling much to their early education by their association with journalistic
work.

••The (»ldest son. Josiah P. Stone, worked his way through college and
was admitted to practice law. which he did until the commencement of the
war. when his patriotism impelled him to enter into the struggle. He raised
a companv of volunteers, went into service as captain, and fought wMth great
gallantry until killed in the memorable siege of Petersburg. Virginia, in 1864.

"Augustus Lisbon Stone followed somewhat in the same line, working
and attending school, finally at the academy in Rome. New York. While
in his academic course, he was called home at seventeen years of age to help
his father, whom President Pierce had appointed postinaster. Here for eight
years he labored in the store and postoflfice combined, and for the first time
in the history of his own family the accumulation of property began. During
these and after years he studied, sometimes employing tutors, but generally
unaided. He has substantially educated himself, well and liberally. His
Iibrar\-, which is exceptionally large, is of decided merit in educational lines.
In 1864 he wedded Kittie Angell. of Pulaski. New York, w-ho is a lineal
descendant of Roger Williams and of Gen. Nathaniel Greene. The family of
Hempstead, of Hempstead, Long Island, is her ancestral origin. Four chil-
dren were born to them, two of whom survive. Martha Anna and Ruby Eliza-
l)eth. Kittie I'arsons having died in infancy and Katie Angell at the age of
seven years.

"In 1870 Mr. Stone founded, with his cousin. A. G. Smith, the banking
house of Stone & Smith in Clinton. Iowa. A singleness of purpose, a desire
to make the bank a thoroughly relial)le and substantial institution, impelled
him at every solicitation to decline j)lace in public and political life, believing
his bank should l>c distinctive and separate from associated individuality in
its officers. Notwithstantling his rule, occasions have demanded, and he has
accepted, places of trust. He accepted the office of mayor of the municipality
where he lives, having a unanimous vote. In educational affairs he has been
honored by election several times to the director^-, without opposition. He
has been vestryman for many years in the Episcopal church. In various cor-

PUBLIC LIBIURY

ASTOR, LENOX, AND
TILD-EN FOUiNUATlONS

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CLINTON COUNT V, IOWA. 73 I

porations he has place in l)oards of directors. The Stone & Smith Bank re-
solved into the City National luink in 1880, and is the largest in business and
strength in the section where located. He has been its president since its
organization.

"Mr. Stone is a good representative of the class of men who have re-
deemed what was but a short time back a vast wilderness, and turned it into
fair cities and fertile farms. The distinguishing traits of his ancestors early
showed themselves in his character. His undaunted determination to obtain
an education, even under the most adverse circumstances, being the same
spirit that enabled the early Pilgrims to conquer the stubborn rocks and hills
of New England. This has been characteristic of the man (hiring his entire
life. Careful, energetic, and a capable business man. he enters into an enter-
prise only after mature deliberation, but once he has undertaken to accom-
plish an object, he pushes steadily on, overcoming all obstacles until his work
is crowned with success. Throughout Iowa he is known and respected, while
his reputation as a careful and capable financier reaches far beyond the
boundaries of his home state. To him and to others of similar character the
West owes much of her present greatness and prosperity. L. J. G."

The above biography stops at 1894. Of the two surviving children,
Martha Anna married F. B. Burbank and moved to Sioux City, where she
died. Ruby Elizabeth married Roscoe W. Armstrong and lives in Ringwood
(Clinton) ; one child has been born to them and is named Roscoe Whalen
Armstrong. Jr.. and is nearly one year old now (December i, 1910).

Mr. Stone retired from the banking business in 190T and is now president
of the Stone-Cook Lumber Company in Clinton and Low Moor. Iowa, of
which Robert Hall, of Low Moor, is vice-president and J. B. Smoller, of
Clinton, is secretary. The Park Falls (Wisconsin) Cedar Company is com-
posed of F. P. Stone, Wausau. president, A. L. Stone, vice-president, and
S. H. Cook, secretarv and manas:er.

CHANCY LAMB.

One of the most significant memorials that any man can have, is the
memory, by those who know him, of courtesy, thoughtfulness for others and
kindness shown in everv-dav life to those with whom he came in contact.

-._. CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Such a iiicnK.rial has Chancy Lamb, of Chnton. Iowa, who died July 12.
1897. at the ripe age of eighty-one years, after a lifetime of unusual useful-
ness and after having achieved niaterial success as well as being crowned with
the blessings that a life such as his so richly deserves.

Mr. Lamb was a descendant of Thomas Lamb, who came from England
with (ic)vernor Winthrop's fleet in 1630 and settled at Roxbury. Massachusetts.
Chancv Lamb was horn January 4. 1816. at Ticonderoga, Essex county. New
York, and there spent his' early years. When still a mere lad. he performed
the duties of a man for several years, working on his father's farm. He at-
tended school a few weeks during the winter, which was about the only oppor-
tunitv he hid for acquiring a hmited education. Later he worked for two
vears in a sawmill on Lake George, near Ticonderoga. at a place called
Hague. The mill was owned by the Balcom family. In 1836 the young man
went to Benton. Yates county. New York, where he learned the trade of a
millwright. The next three years were spent working in a sawmill at Brad-
ford. Steuben county. Xew ^'ork. His experience as a millwright and sawyer
fitted him to take charge of the construction of a sawmill on the outlet of Lake
Keuka. near Penn Yan. Xew York, for R. L. Chapman, in the summer of
1841. I'pon the completion of the mill the following year. Mr. Lamb oper-
ated it imder contract for the owner. In November, 1842. he returned to
Brr^dford. where he took a contract to run a sawmill for Cameron. Thurman
& Company, and continued with this firm in the capacity of superintendent
until the summer of 1844. when he moved to Carroll county. Illinois. Mr.
Lamb- was one of several men of family who migrated to this western terri-
tr>ry and located in what is yet known as the Bailey settlement. Argo. about
ten miles from Savannah and eighteen liiiles from Clinton. Iowa. He spent
about six years in farming and stock raising in the growing settlement. In
those days wheat was hauled in wagons to Chicago and supplies were obtained
from that young metropolis.

But farm life was not to the liking of Mr. Lamb, and he saw more op-
portunities in the lumber business. So, in 185 1. he left the Bailey settle-
ment and went to W'illiamsport. Pennsylvania, where he became superin-
tendent of the mill ()|)erations of J. C. Cameron & Company, and in the fol-
lf)wing year operated the mills of the company in Chemung county. X^ew York,
sawing by the thousand. He spent three and one-half years in charge of the
Rig Flats mill, and at the expiration of that period he went to Canada with a
man named Curtis, with whom he entered into partnership, the firm building
a mill at Barrie. near Toronto. At the end of a vear and a half Mr. Lamb"

CLINTON COUNTY. IOWA. 733

sold out to his partner and returned to the west, and for a few months was a
resident of FuUon, Illinois.

Mr. Lamb had spent the better part of his life up to this time in saw-
milling, and he chose this as his vocation. Tie seized an opportunity to
buv a small lumber yard and sawmill at Clinton, Iowa, operated by Gray &
Lunt. Upon coming- into possession of the property Mr. Lamb rebuilt the
mill, which was the first modern plant in Clinton and was located at the point
where the Chicago & Northwestern railway crosses the Mississippi river.
This mill was burned October 6. 1857, and the owner proceeded to replace it
w itii a more complete plant about two blocks south of the original site. The
new mill had as its equipment two gangs, a mulay and circular, and a shingle
and lath mill, and was one of the best ecjuipped on the Mississippi river. Mr.
Lamb conducted the business under his own name until 1864. when he took
his oldest son, Artemus, into partnership, the firm name being changed to C.
Lamb & Son. In ^larch. 1868, the foundation of a stone sawmill was laid,
and this mill began operation in September of the same year.

C. Lamb & Son bought an interest in the Cobb mill property at River-
side, a surburb of Clinton, in the winter of 1868 and organized a firm styled
Lamb, Byng & Company, composed of themselves, S. B. Gardiner. S. W.
Gardiner and John Byng. Four years later this firm secured the sawmill of
Wheeler & Warner, which was located a short distance below the Cobb mill
in Clinton. The Lamb concern became known as C. Lamb & Sons in 1874,
by Lafayette Lamb, a son of Chancy Lamb, being taken in as a partner. In
the spring of 1877 C. Lamb & Sons took over the interests of S. B. and S. W.
Gardiner and John Byng in Lamb, Byng & Company, and in January, 1878,
C. Lamb & Sons was incorporated, with Chancy Lamb, president. Lafayette
Lamb, vice-president, and Artemus Lamb, secretary and treasurer.

Mr. Lamb is believed to have been the first manufacturer to employ the
band mill in sawing white pine. In 1883. having heard band mills were in
use in Indiana and Tennessee for sawing hardwood veneering and making
poplar lumber, he investigated and then purchased a London, Berry & Orton
sawmill which took the place of a circular in one of the four Clinton mills.
The innovation was a success, and later another mill was equipped with a
band saw.

The mechanical instinct was largely developed in Mr. Lamb, and he was
the inventor of several appliances which are in general use today. One of
these inventions was an edger with movable saws by which the width of
boards being sawed could be changed while the mill was in full operation.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

lie alx) invented a trimmer for the trimming of hoards to any length, and it is
a matter of local history that he used a hull chain, or endless chain, in hauhng
lot's out of the river hefore this device was heard of hy anyone else in that
locality. lie designed, for one of the Lamh mills, a friction log turner, and
after it had heen in successful use for a long time Mr. Lamh learned that the
patent office had termed it a '•nigger" and had deemed the invention of such
importance as to invest it with letters patent. The Lambs were the first to
depart from the crude methods of towing logs and to operate a fleet of
steamers.

When the company sawed its last log at Clinton. October 26, 1904, Mr.
Lamb and his sons during the life of the operations had manufactured and
|)ut upon the market more than three billion feet of white pine lumber, not
including the production of shingles, lath and pickets.

Mr. Laml) married Jane Bevier at Bradford, New York, November 16,
1839. She was the daughter of David Bevier, who had served as an adjutant
of the Third Ulster County (New York) Regiment in the Revolutionary war.
She was a faithful partner of her husband for fifty-eight years, during which
time two sons, Artemus and Lafayette, and four daughters, Augusta, Celeste,
Merrette and Emma E., were born. Three of these children are living.
Lafayette Lamb, Mrs. Augusta A\'are and Mrs. Emma E. Young. Mrs.
Lamb died March 5. 1897. In her death the poor lost a sympathetic friend
who never turned a deaf ear to their appeals.

Mr. Lamb was a member of no social organization, except the Benevolent
and I'njtective Order of Elks. He was Whig in his early life, and in 1840
cast his first vote for Harrison, later in life becoming a Republican. He
attended the Presbyterian church ami gave liberally to its support and to
charities, and he did much for the general upbuilding of his community and
was held in high esteem by all classes owing to his exemplary life.

MARTIN MASON.

One of the successful and thrifty farmers of western Clinton count v is
Martin Mason, who is a worthy son of a worthy sire, representing a .sterling
old Nrjrweigan family, long promintnit and influential in the affairs of this
locality. Owing to the fact that his father was a man of such industrv and

MR. AND MRS. PETER MASON

THE M^' ' f^^'^^

PUBLIC III;. .ART

ASTOK. u:no^:, and

TILUEN FOCNUATIONS
It L

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 735

integritv. the niajor ])ait of this skctcli will be devoted to his career, which has
now been cli)scd In the hand nt death.

Martin Mason was b(jrn in Clinton county November 24, 1874. and is
the son of Peter and Serena (Severson) Mason. The father was born in
March, 1S44, in Xorwav. and was the son of Madson and Madila (Peterson)
Madson, both born in .Xorwav. from which country they came to America
in 1871, direct to Clinton county. Iowa, locating- in Olive township, two miles
west of Calamus, where the father lived until his death, after which event
his widow moved to Hamilton county. Towa. where her death occurred.

Peter Mason was educated in Norway and grew to maturity there. He
came to America in i86() and located at Lisbon. Illinois, working on a railroad
there, then foll'owed threshing and later farming, and al)out iS^S he came to
Olive township. Clinton county, Iowa, and took up farming. He was a
good manager and a hard worker and accumulated a handsome competence,
becoming the owner of a fine fami of two hundred and forty acres, on which
he placed excellent improvements and had a substantial and attractive home.
He was unaided in his life work and always relied upon himself. He became
well known throughout the western part of Clinton county and was highly
respected and induential.

Peter Alason married, in 1872, Serena Severson. who was born in Nor-
wav and who came to America in 1866 and located in Clinton county. Iowa,
ha\'ing been accompanied by her sister. To Mr. and Mrs. Peter Mason the
following children were born: Martin, Albert S.. Eli J.. H. M.. Lars J.
(deceased). Peter. Jr., and Ida Inger (deceased).

Martin Mason was educated in the home schools and while a young man
weTit to the far West, spending five and one-half years in Oregon, working on
a farm in that state. Returning to Iowa, he worked on a farm in Webster
count V three years. With these exceptions, he has li\Td on the homestead
in Clinton countv. He has been very successful in the management of this
place, operating one hundred and eighteen acres, thirty-eight acres being of the
old home place. The rest he has added subsequently. He has made ex-
tensive and valuable improvements on the place, erecting substantial, modern
and convenient buildings, fences, etc. In 1906 he erected the first cement
farm house ever built in the township. He has beautified his place in many
ways. He carries on general farming and stock raising, giving all his atten-
tion to the same.

Martin Mason was married on April 18, 1901, to Anna\Maria Christian-
sen. daughtcT of Peter Christiansen and wife, a full sketch of whom appears

-:^6 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA,

elsewhere in this work. To Mr. and Mrs. Martin Mason these children have
been born : Ida Alice. Leonard John. Madila Cecilia and Clara Josephine.

The Mason familv are faithful members of the Norwegian Lutheran
church. Politicallv. Mr. Mason is a Republican, but neither he nor his father
ever cared for public office.

TOHX MEIXTS.

One of that large horde of tlirifty citizens from the loved and famed
fatherland who have done such a commendable work in developing the great
resources of Clinton county, Iowa, is John Meints, a thrifty farmer and stock
raiser of Orange tow nship, who has won an excellent landed estate and cozy
home, also a position of honor in his community, because he has worked along
proper lines. He therefore deserves his success, as will be seen by a perusal
of a brief history of his veiy busy career.

Mr. Meints was born in Cicrmany July 3, 1862. and is the son of Claus
Meints, who is mentioned at some length in the sketch of Christ Meints. But
it might be said here that he was always regarded as an honest, industrious
citizen, who took much pains in rearing his family to the same habits and
principles that had always actuated his course.

John Meints was educated in Germany, where he grew to maturity and
being still young when he came to the L'nited States, he also attended school
here. He accompanied his parents to our shores in 1875 ^"^ located south of
Grand Mound. Clinton county. Iowa. He assisted in developing the home-
stead there, and he has always been a farmer and a very successful one, too.
He started in life with but little capital and he has never been helped over-
much, but he is now the owner of one of the finest farms in Orange township,
consisting of two hundred and forty acres, which he has brought up to a high
state of improvement and has enriched the fields so that the original strength
of the soil is retained and abundant harvests reaped from vear to vear. In
if)OQ he put up a modern dwelling, beautifully located and attractive from an
architectural viewpoint and equipped with modern appliances. He carries
on general farming and is a breeder of good live stock. He takes an interest
in local affairs and is at present .secretary of the .school board in Orange town-
'>hip. having very ably filled this position for the past twelve vears.

Mr. Meints has been secretarv of the German Mutual Fire and Lisfhtninsf
Insurance Company for the past fourteen years; he has also been secretarv of
the Farmers Mutual Telephotie Company of this county, since its organization

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CLINTON fOUNTV, IOWA. y};]

in 1900. and he has filled holli tiiese positions in a manner that rdlects much
credit upon his innate ability and to the entire satisfaction of all concerned.

Mr. Meinls was married in 1887 to Catherine Kuehl. who was born in
Germany and who came to the Unitetl States when a child with her parents
and located in Olive township, Clinton county, Iowa, where she was reared
and educated and where her parents became well estabhshe-d and the family-
very favorably known. This union has resulted in the birth of the followini,^
children: IJulda. Tiene. Anna. Catherine, Henry, Carl. Selma ; John died in
infancv; Herbert and l\al[)li. Mrs. Meints' father, Clans Kuehl, died Janu-
ary 13. 1908, and her mother passed away on September 3, 1907, both being
buried at the Buena Vista cemetery, this county.

Mr. Meints and his family are members of the German Lutheran church.
Politically, he is a Democrat, but votes independently, especially in local
atTairs.

The first six years of his married life were spent in Boxbutte county,
Nebraska, where Mr. Meints homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres.
While living there he served as county commissioner and held various other
ofifices, having been elected by the People's party. Before his marriage he
traveled extensi\ely. and, being by nature a keen observer, he has been broad-
ened in this manner and is a well informed man. He has never been an oflfice
seeker in the true sense of the word. For the past seventeen years he has
made his home in Orange township, Clinton county, Iowa.

JAMES C. BENEDICT.

Tlie invention whicli did the most for the progress of the luiman race
was tlie alphabet, which enai)led people to record tlieir thoughts and deeds
in permanent form, the one which has been scarcely second in its efTect to the
invention of the alphabet was that of the art of printing, which enabled those
permanently recorded thoughts to be many times duplicated and scattered
about over the world, for the instruction of others. Tlie first invention made
progress possible ; the second accelerated the general purpose of the masses
of mankind and saved learning and science from the sole possession of only
a few favored few. Mr. licnedict has .spent the greater portion of his life
in the work of printing, aiding in a practical and definite w^ay in the com-
munication of thought and the dissemination of knowdedge.

James C. Benedict was l)orn in Linn county, Iowa. <~>n December 12. i8_i4.

(47)

738 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

the son of Lyman D. and Saiepta (M inter) Benedict. His" father was a
native of Chenango county, Ohio, his mother of London, Ohio, where they
were married shortly before they came to Linn county, Iowa, in 1841.
Lyman Benedict was a farmer by occupation, in pohtics, first a Whig, later
an Alx)litionist. and finally a Republican. He and iiis wife were members of
the Methodist church, took an active part, and were very much respected and
esteemed. Of their nine children, four are living.

James C. Benedict was reared on a Linn county farm, attended the public
schools and the high school at Alarion, Iowa. He began the printer's trade
in the ofihce of the Marion Register, at Marion. Iowa, and became so expert
that he soon was made foreman of the shop. In iS^i he went to California,
and sj>ent four vears there working at his trade, during which time he became
well acquainted with Mark Twain, then almost unknown to the world, whom
he hrst met at Virginia City. ^Ir. Benedict returned from California by
wav of the Isthmus of Panama, at the time that the French nation was pre-
paring to dig the canal. During his western stay he had gained experiences
of great value and passed through many interesting events. On his return
he located at Marengo, Iowa, and there was the proprietor of the l^rogressiz'e
Republican. In 1871 he came to De Witt, Clinton county, Iowa, entered the
Observer office as foreman, and continued in that capacity for thirty-seven
years. He then became a partner in the paper with S. H. Shoemaker, but soon
sold his interest to Ed. C. Bnnvn, and engaged in jol) printing at De Witt,
where he has since been in business. Mr. Benedict is without doubt the oldest
printer in Iowa. In politics he is a Republican, and takes an active interest
in both local and national issues. In fraternal relations he is a member of
the Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, the Modern Woodmen of America,
the Modern Brotherhood of America, and the Brotherhood of American Yeo-
men, and in all of these orders has filled the principal oftices. lie is also a
member of the Keljekahs. Ilis religious affiliations are with the Congrega-
tional church.

Mr. Benedict was married in 1835 to Elizabeth O'Mullen, of Marengo,
Iowa, by whom he became the father of one daughter, Henrietta, who mar-
ried E. F. Gerkin. of Cedar Falls. Iowa. His wife died in 1871 and he was
married in 1872 to Sarah Adam Ro.se, of De Witt, bv whom he had two
children, Elizabeth Rose, the wife of C. G. Morton, of De Witt, and Ruth M..
who married Rev. 11. 1*. Garrett, and is now deceased.

Mr. Benedict is active and hearty, advancing age having laid its hands
lightly on him. Ik- can look back over a life well spent and full of good
works, has many friends, and expects to enjoy many more years of life.

CLINTON' COLNIV. IOWA. 739

ADOLIMI JAENICKE, M. D.

European medical scliools have always held a liigher reputation than those
of this country, and deservedly, though our schools are increasing in efficiency.
The subject of this sketch had the advantage of the best German medical
education and is thus the possessor of a better professional training than the
majority of iVmerican physicians. To this he has added the experience gained
in long years of practice, and these, combined with his native ability, suffi-
ciently account for his high professional standing. He has followed carefully
the progress of modern advances in this most useful of professions and is
thoroughly up-to-date in his knowledge of medical science. And, full\- recog-
nizing the value of his German training, he has caused his son to receive a
similar course in a prominent German medical school, thus giving him every
advantage at the beginning of his career.

Adolph Jaenicke was born in East Prussia, Germany, Eebruary 13, 1854,
son of August and Lina Jaenicke. His parents are natives of Prussia, and his
father died there about 1898. His mother is still' living. August Jaenicke
was in the employ of the German government, and held a responsible position
for many years. He was the father of three children, of whom two are
living.

Adolph Jaenicke was educated at Koenigsburg, in the University of
Wurzburg, and graduated in the class of 1878. He i)racticed in his native
country for four years, then in 1882 came to America and located at Daven-
port, Iowa, until 1895, when he came to Clinton, and has since practiced. He
has given his whole attention to his practice and his profession, to which he
is much devoted. He is a member of the Iowa State and Clinton County
Medical Societies, and takes a prominent part in all professional activities.

Doctor Jaenicke was married in Germany to Katharine Hahn, who has
borne to him two sons, Kurt, born April 30, 1883, and Ralph, born June 15,
1885. Kurt graduated in medicine from the University of Iowa in 1905,
spent two years in Europe as a student at Berlin, and is associated w ith his
father in practice. He is a member of the Iowa State and Clinton County
Medical Associations, of which latter he is the president. Ralph is a reg-
istered pharmacist and lives in Davenport. He married Mina Miller, of
Burlington, Iowa.

Doctor Jaenicke is a physician of the highest standing and reputation and
is also personally one of the l^est liked men in liis community. Able and in-
telligent, devoted to his profession, he has been ^\•e]l rewarded tor tlie time
spent in its pursuit.

j^O CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

SLMOX SliOECRAFT.

The biographer is always glad when it falls to his lot to review the life
of a man whose history is at once as interesting and instructive as that of the
one whose name heads this article, a business man who has won success by
strict integrity and who has applied in his daily hfe the principles of the
Christian religion. He has had a life of varied experience and has seen his
share of hardships, but has overcome them and has brought to the later years
of his life a philosophy of living which is not new, which has satisfied him
and which he believes will satisfy others.

Simon Shoecraft was l>orn in Oswego county. New York, September 22,
1836. the son of Joseph and Lany (Calkins) Shoecraft. His paternal grand-
father was Peter Shoecraft, who hved and died in New York, he and his wife
dving when Simon was very young. They were Germans who came very
early to Herkimer county. New York, and afterwards removed to Oswego
county.

Joseph Shoecraft was born in Herkimer count)', grew up on the farm,
served in the war of 1812, and made farming his lifelong occupation. His
wife was a native of the same county. He took a prominent part in local
politics, but w as ne\er an office seeker. Of his sixteen children, nine sons and
seven daughters, four sons and one daughter are surviving in 1910; Henry,
living in New York, aged eighty-five ; Francis, aged about eighty ; William,
about seventy-six: and Simon; Virilla, widow of J. W. Caldwell.

Simon Shoecraft was educated in the country schools of New York, at-
tending them until fourteen. An older brother had worked on the farm until
twenty-one, then, without a dollar to start, worked his way through college.
Returning, he persuaded his parents to allow Simon to attend school' at Oneida,
where he prepared for Cazeno\ ia Seminary, from which he graduated in
1858, and then came to Clinton, Iowa. He taught school one year at De
Witt, then attended Cornell College at Mount Vernon. Iowa, and graduated
there in 1862. While there he sawed wood to pay his tuition, and in sum-
mer worked in the liarve.st fields and wherever he could find something to do.
At commencement in 1862, W. H. Lunt, of Clinton, who was president of the
school board of that city, was looking for a teacher, and the president of
Cornell recommended Mr. Shoecraft. and so he was hired to teach here and
continued until April. 1866. when he entered the fuel business. Beginning
in a small way. Mr. Hosford furnished the money and Mr. Shoecraft ran the
business. Two years later he to(ik uji the business alone, and until his son
grew up continued thus, lie h;is been in continuous business longer than

CLINTON COUNTV, IOWA. 74I

any other in this part of the county and has been on the avenue long enough
to see every house put up. His l)usiness now is \ery extensive. In pohtics
he is a RepubHcan, with independent tendencies. He is a member of no
fraternities or ckibs, and finds his enjoyment in his home and family.

Mr. Shoecraft was married in 1865 to Jutie C. Mcintosh, daughter of
L. W. and Eunice Carter Mcintosh, who had come to Vernon, New York,
from Connecticut, where Jutie was born. They are the parents of two chil-
dren, Lucius M.. in l)usiness with his father, and Letitia, who lives at home.

Mr. Shoecraft is very cheerful and a pleasant man to meet. He owns,
besides his business, a thousand-acre stock farm in Jackson county, and lives in
a fine residence at Xo. 539 Fifth avenue. He and his wife are members of
the Methodist church, and he is a firm believer in the religion of the Bible, and
believes that if a young man will but have faith in God he cannot fail to suc-
ceed. His own faith has jjeen justified and he has observed many others who
have found it thus.

EUGENE HANSSEN.

Nothing is more marked than the change which has taken place in the
farmer's situation in the last few years. At a time not more than twenty
years distant, he seemed to be the most unfortunate of men and to have ever}-
man's hand against him. But what a change today. Now he is in a position
of command. Circumstances have so altered that he is no longer at the
mercy of the traders and transporters. l)ut is holding the reins himself, is
receiving high prices for his produce, and is becoming envied by the city
dwellers because of his prosperity. Twenty years ago the lianks were loaning
city money to farmers on mortgages; now the banks are loaning farmers'
money to city men on mortgages.

Eugene Hanssen was born in Deep Creek township. Clinton county,
Iowa, December 21. 1858, a son of Otto and I'redericka ( Asniussen) Hans-
sen, both natives of Germany, he born in 18J5 and she in T83J. On July
4. 1854, thev landed in New \'ork City, after an ocean passage of eleven
weeks, and located finally in Iowa, near Sabula, Jackson county, on a farm.
Two vears later they l)ought the farm on wliich Eugene was born, and in
1901 moved to Bryant, Iowa, where Otto Hanssen died in April, 1905, and
where his widow still lives. They are the parents of fifteen children, of whom
ten are living. He was a Repu1)lican in ])olitirs in earlier life, 1)ut after-
ward became a Democrat. He and his familv were nu'inl)ers of the Lutheran

742 • CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

church. He was elected assessor of Deep Creek township for many terms,
and was also trustee for some time. The peii])le n\ that township had great
confidence in liini and respected him hi^hlx'.

Eugene Hanssen was reared on a tarm and e(hicaled in the pubHc
schools of his townshi]). lie farmed f<n' man\- years and owned one hundred
sixtv acres of land, wluih he sold and came to l)c W itt. in September, 1908,
and from that time on has gi\cn his entire attention to the buying and selling
of horses and cattle, in which business he was formerly engaged in connection
with his farming, lie also was engaged in stock feeding while on the farm,
lie is one of the stockholders and directors of the Iowa State IJank at Lyons,
Iowa. In politics he is a Democrat and was elected township clerk and later
tax collector of Center townshi]). b^raternallw he is a member of the Odd
l^^llows and of the Mt)dern Woodmen, lie and his wife are members of
the Ltitheran church.

Mr. Hanssen was married on l-ebruar\- 25, 1885. to Amelia Gradert,
daughter of John (iradert. mentioned elsewhere in this work. To their union
have been born five children: Walter, dead. Eugenia, dead. Irene, Florence
and Clarence.

Mr. Hanssen has prospered both in his farnn'ng and in stock dealing, and
has ajjplied much practical business ability in his operations. He is popular
and well liked among his neighbors, and has taken nuich interest in public
affairs.

KELLY BROTHERS.

.\mong the important. thri\-ing and enter])rising manufacturing establish-
ments of Clinton, that of l\ell\ Urothers takes high rank. In 1890 the
Kelly hrothers. j. A.. W. J.. T. F. and P. H., organized the J. A. Kelly &
Brothers Comjjany for the manufriclure of the Kelly comfort chair, daven-
ports and upholstered furniture. The business started as a partnership, at
Second avenue and Sixth street, and in i8<;j was incorporated as J. A. Kelly
iK: I'.rothers .'ind built a factory at I'lfteenth street and Stockholm, employing
about thirty-live men. It now employs ninety men and has graduallv in-
creased its territor\' from the states of Illinois and Iowa to a national extent,
nf)W selling all over the United States and doing iconic Inisiness in Cub'' and
South .\merica. Of this company. J. A. Kelly is president; P. TT. Kellv, vice-
president : T. !•". Kelly, secretary. :in<l W. J. Kelly, treasurer.

The Kelly-Sorensen Company is owned and controlled bv the same

CLINTON COUNT V, IOWA. 743

people. It was organized in 1905 for the purpose of manufacturing chamber
furnilnre. (h'essers, beds, commodes, dining room furniture, buffets, etc. Of
this company. W . j. Kelly is president: j. A. Kelly, vice-president, and P. H.
Kelly, secretary and treasurer. Both these companies are operated separate-
ly, but employ the same traveling men. TIk' Kclly-Sorensen Company em-
ploys almost as large a regular force as the older company, and has seventy-
five men on its paxroUs. P)Oth companies economize by making a saving
in cost of sales, in other ways than by employing the same road force. They
often ship half-car loads for each, thus saxing the full hire of a car for each
company. The companies have on the road five salaried men and twenty
working on commission. The success of the firms has 1)een due to two
things, the superior quality of their ])ro(lucts and the careful and economical
management of the Kelly brothers, as evidenced in part by their combining
largely the selling and shipping of the two companies. They are also \ery
efficient in securing and keeping good salesmen. The two companies have
had a steady, consistent growth, which if continued, as it bids fair to be, will
soon bring their business to very large proportions. They ha\e been among
the most successful of the Clinton manufacturing establishments.

CECIL VINCENT CONNOLE, D. D. S.

It may be that mtxlern conditions of living are responsible for the gen-
eral poor condition of tlie teeth of most persons today; it may be that our
ancestors had just as much trouble in the same way, but. lacking our facilities
for relief and repair of those essential organs of the body, had to bear their
miser}- unrelie\ed and took it as matter of course. Dentistry is a compara-
tively modern profession and is makiii'^- ])rogress. The dentist who gradu-
ated twenty years ago finds that the younger members of the profession can
do things which were in his time believed impossible, and that teeth which
the old time dentistr}- ruthlessly condemned are now sa\-ed, and the necessity
for artificial teeth with which the earliest dentistry concerned itself, is largely
being remoxed by repairing the remains of those which nature has gi\-en us.
And while the profession is one which greatly lienefits the race, it also usually
gives to the one who practices it a fair monetary reward.

Cecil Vincent Connole was born in Clinton county. Iowa, January 14,
1878, son of Thomas L. and I'idelia K (W'ampler) Connole. Thomas L.
Connole was born in Jones county. Iowa, January 9. 1847. attended the public

J44 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

schools and li;i> hccn in the grocery l)ii>iness for ahoiit thirty-five years, at
which he has heen veiy successful. In politics he is a Democrat, and he and
his wife and fann'ly arc Latholics. He was married to Fidelia Wam])ler. a
native of Illinois, daujihter of Peter Wampler. who spent his last days in
Illinois.

Doctor Connole's paternal grandparents were Thomas and Hannah
(Malone) Connole. hoth l)orn in Ireland. In 1840 Thomas Connole came to
Dul)uc|ue. Iowa, and his wife ahout the same time. They were married in
Boston. Massachusetts. They were the parents of ten children, four sons
and three daughters. Thomas was a farmer nnd dicij ahout 1898 and his
wife in 1905. They were members of the Catholic church.

Cecil Connole grew up in De Witt, attended the public, high and
parochial schools there, and took a classical course at St. Mary's, Kansas, and
graduated from the Chicago College of Dental Surgery in 190 1. After grad-
uation he practiced in Chicago for about six months, then came to De A\'^itt
to practice, and has had a ver)- successful practice here. He is a member
of the Iowa State Dental Society and of the Chicago Dental Society. In
politics he is an independent voter. He and his family are meinbers of the
Catholic church.

Dr. Connole was married on October T2. 1909. to Dolorosa Schneider,
who was born in Lyons, Iowa, daughter of John H. and Hannah (Redden)
Schneider. Her father was born in New- York, her mother in Iowa, and they
are still residents of Lyons. Iowa.

Doctor Connole is a man w^ho. by the agreeableness of his nature, has
made many friends. His professional success has been good, and he stands
well in dental circles. He is progressive and u])-to-date in all matters and
takes much interest in the development of the communitv.

REV. JOH.\N.\S T. HF.IE.

.\ large amount of good has been accomplished by the Rev. Johanas I.
Heie. who is both a .successful expounder of the gospel of the Mazarene and
also a business man of no small caliber. He is a persistent, conscientious
and able worker in all the relations of life and has .shown what self-reliance,
courage and right principles can accomplish, although in the face of seeming-
ly insurmountable obstacles. He was born near Rurgeu, Xorwav. in t8:;i,
and is the son of Johanas and Christa C Nelson) Heie. both natives of Nor-

THE NEW YORK

PUBLIC LIBRARY

Ki^-iV'. LENOX, AND

TTTlvr.N 1-OlNDATIONS '[

R I' i

JOHANAS J. HEIE

MRS. BliRIUANNA HEIE

MO x

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 745

way, in which country they spent their hves, both being now deceased. The
father was a famier and his family consisted of seven children.

Johanas J. Heie hved on the home farm until he was fifteen years of age
and attended the public schools under the supervision of the church. Then
he went to the citv of Burgen, where he worked during the day and attended
night school. Later he went to Christiansund. a city nortli of Rurgen. in
1874, and there clerked in a store one year, then emigrated to America, locat-
ing in Story county. Towa, where he worked at various things for one year,
then moved to Decora, this state, and there attended the Lutheran College
for a period of four vears and left that institution in 1877. Lie eng'iged in
teaching for one rear, later went to Tennessee, and subsec|uently to Indiana,
then returned to Iowa, and finally went to IMinnesota. In 1885 he entered
the Theological Seminary at the Capital L^niversity. Columbus, Ohio, from
which institution he was graduated after a three-years course. lie l)egan his
regular work as pastor at Dwight. Richland county. North Dakota, and re-
mained there six vears, then went to Fargo, that state, where he remained
four vears. then he went to the Pacific coast and preached at Portland. Ore-
gon, for three and one-half years, and in tqoo he came to his present loca-
tion, and has since been pastor of the church southeast of Calamus in Olive
township, Clinton county. He also operates one hundred and sixty acres of
land, which he owns here, and he'*lias charge of forty acres which belongs to
the parsonage. He carries on general farming in a very successful manner.
As a minister he has done a great work wherever he has been called, strength-
ening and building up tlie congregations which he has ser\-ed. and he is an
earnest, forceful and faithful expounder of the gospel, being a profound
student and carefully educated.

Rev. Mr. Heie was married on ]\Iarch 15. t88o. to BeTthanna John.son,
a native of Clinton county, born and reared in this locality and educated here.
She is the daughter of George and Bertha (Christensen) Johnson, early set-
tlers in Clinton county, having come here from Norway about 1853. the father
becoming an extensive farmer here. There were eleven children born to Mr.
and Mrs. Johnson: John D., Berthanna. Christian. Elizabeth. Christanna,
Bertha AI. (deceased), Bertha Margaret, George, Marie. Lea (deceased).
Christian. To Rev. and ^Irs. Heie there were six children born : Hjalmar.
Leanora. Sigurd. Swanhild, Frithgof and Johan. all being deceased, except
Frith go f.

Politically. Re\'. ^Ir. Heie is a Republican, but is lilicval in his views.
He takes an abiding interest in whatever tends to promote the general good
of his communitv and countv and he is always on the right side of everv

y^(y CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

public and mural question, lie is one of the most influential men in the west-
ern portion of the county and is eminently deserving of the confidence and
esteem that are freely accorded him. He is obliging, genial, hospitable and a
man who lakes a great deal of interest in young people and advocates a clean,
wholesome life.

GUSTAV A. HORSTMAXX.

A splendid example of the modern agriculturist is to be found in Gustav
A. Ilorstmann. of the vicinity of Toronto, Liberty township, Clinton county,
a man who hokls high rank among the progressixe citizens of the community
in which he resides and whose interests he has ever had at heart and sought
to promote in whatever manner possible, fur he realized the duties of true
citizens early in life and has never shirked his duties in this connection, well
knowing that to promote the general good meant also the advancement of his
individual interests.

Mr. ilorstmann was born in Cedar county, Iowa, on July 14, 1868, and
he is the son of Frederick and Dorothy Ilorstmann. the father a native of
Holstein, Germany, his birth having occurred on December 30, 1836; the
mother was also born in Germany, on April 27, 1844. There they grew to
maturity and were educated in the common schools. The father emigrated
to the United States in 1866, coming west to Cedar county, Iowa, later moving
to Scott county, lie was a man of thrift and in due course of time became
well established in tlie land of his adoption. His family consisted of five
children, four of whom are living. Frederick Horstmann farmed until 1891,
in which year he moved to Wheatland and there spent the remainder of his
days, his birth occurring on July 3, 1909. and that of his wife on November
II. 1 90 1. He was a very successful fanner and business man, and owned
a fine farm of two hundred and forty acres. He started in life with practical-
ly nothing, but he was a man of indomitable courage and succeeded by his
own efforts. Owing to his exemplar}' life, lie had the good will of all who
knew him In i)ulitics he was a Democrat and was at one time justice of the
peace, holding this office in a \erv creditable manner for a nnnilier of years;
he was also schocjl director for a number of years.

Gustav A. Horstmrnm was reared on the home farm, and when but a
lad he was put to work in the fields, assisting with the cro])s during the
summer months and attending tlie public schools in the winter time. He
took up farming as a life work and has been \ery successful, now owning

CLINTON COUNTV, IOWA. 747

two huiiilrcd and toity aero, well iinproNcd in e\ery respect and under a
hig;h state of cultixation. on which stand a beautifully located and cozy dwell-
ing and a si)lcndi(l gmup n\ outbuildings, in the midst of forest and fruit
trees. On the place may be seen at all seasons various grades of good live
stock which form no small part of his annual income, for he understands
well the handling of stock and their raising and marketing. This is the old
homestead, which lie has taken a tlelight in keeping up as did his worth)'
father l:efore him. carrxing on general farming in a manner that stamps him
as a worthy son of a worthy sire.

Politically. Mr. 1 lorstmann is a Democrat, and he has Ijeen one of the
trustees of Liberty township for the past twelve years: he is now holding the
otifice of secretary of the local school board, having tilled this position with
satisfaction for the past six years, taking an abiding interest in educational and
all local affairs and ready at all times to do his full share in promoting
the general good.

Mr. 1 lorstmann was married in 1891 to Alwiene Bielfeldt, a natixe of
Germany and the daughter of Jocum and Maria (Alwiene) Bielfeldt. who
emigrated to Clinton county. Iowa, in an early day. the father dying at Wheat-
land in 1902; the mother survives, and is making her home in Davenport,
Iowa. They were always very highly respected wherever they cast their lot,
being people of industr}^ and honesty. To 'Sir. and Mrs. Horstmann four
children have been born. Fred. Walter. Lillie and Leonard. The Horstmann
family has always stood high in the social life of Liberty township.

GEORGE WILLLVM DULANY. JR.

The chief characteristics of George William Dulany, Jr.. a prominent
business man of Clinton, Iowa, seem to be keenness of perce])tion. a tireless
energy, honesty of purpose and motive and everyday common sense, which
have enabled him not only to advance his own interests. l)ut also to contrib.ute
to the moral and material advancement of the community.

Mr. Dulany was born in Ft. Scott. Kansas. July 1 1. 1877, and he is the
son of George William antl Fannie (W'illiams) Dulany. They were both
born in Missouri and were married in Ft. Scott. Kansas, whither the elder
Dulany had gone when but a xoung man for the ])urpose of engaging in the
retail lumlier business, and Fannie \\'illiams had accc^mpanied her parents
there when a young girl. Remaining in Ft. Scott a few years, these parents

J4.S CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

returned to liannilKil. Missouri, where Mr. Dulany continued to engage in the
lumber business and where they still reside. He has been associated
with his father in the lumber business since before the Civil war. the father,
\V. H. Dulanv. having l^een born in Howard county, Missouri, in 1818, his
parents, the great-grandparents of the subject, having had the distinction of
coming to Missouri with the Daniel Boone party in the early pioneer days.
These two gentlemen, father and son. with the grandfathers brothers, en-
gaged in the lumber business in- Hannibal very extensively in the early days,
this citv having been for many years the distributing point for Missouri, Iowa
and Nebraska and the Middle West. The timber and lumber were shipped
down from the north, principally towed on the ^Mississippi river, and many
millions of feet of the same passed the city of Clinton en route to Hannibal.
Meml)ers of this family in the meantime iDecame identified with the mills in
Wisconsin, Minnesota. Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas and Washington. \\'hile
the family still live in Hannibal, they have not conducted any active business
there since 1898. They became known throughout the Mississippi valley in
connection with the lumber business and became prosperous in this line.

In 1894, George W. Dulany, Jr.. of this review, organized in Minneapo-
lis, Minnesota, the Eclipse Lumber Company, where the general offices were
maintained until June i. 1910. when they moved them to Clinton. Iowa, mak-
ing the main office nearer the branch offices, which are located in Iowa and
southern Minnesota. The Dulany s also purchased the old and well estab-
lished lumber interests here of C. Lamb & Sons, held at that time by Ingwer-
sen-Borbeck & Company.

George W. Dulany, Jr.. was educated in the public schools of Hannibal,
Missouri, later attended Phillips Academy at Andover, Massachusetts, and
finally Yale University, from which institution he was graduated in 1898.

Young Dulany enlisted in the United States navy and served with much
credit on the "Minne.sota" during the war with Spain. The "Minnesota" did
princii)ally patrol duty as a part of the north Atlantic .squadron, defending the
coast of New England. He enlisted as common .seaman and rose to the rank
of second class (juartermaster. In 1899 he entered the employ of the Empire
Lumber Company, building for them a railway through the woods of north-
ern Wisconsin. He was next engaged in the lumber and grain business at
Winona. Minnesota, until 1903, when he moved to Minneapolis and shortly
afterwards organized the Eclipse Lumber Company, rdreadv mentioned.

Mr. Dulany seems to have inherited his business genius from his ante-
cedents and. judging by the splendid record lu- lias made in the past, the fu-
ture holds much of promise in his chosen field of endeavor. He has rare

CLINTOX COUNTY, IOWA. 749

foresight, analytical abilit) and is In- nalnre an organizer and proniotor and
he is a man of straightforward principles and persistent energ}\ Personally
he is a good mixer, unassuming, genial and uniformly courteous.

Until recent years the Dulanys were Democrats, but now the subject is
independent, preferring to xote for the man whom he deems most worthy of
the office sought, rather tlian for the party. Fraternally he belongs to the
Winona Consistory, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and the Ancient
Arabic Order of Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He also belonged to a college
fraternity, and he is a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, some
of his ancestors having fought in the patriot army.

Mr. Dulany was married on August 25, 1901. to Catherine McDonnell,
a lady of culture and refinement and the representative of a prominent old
family of Evanston. Illinois. This union has been graced by the birth of one
son. George \\'illiam, the third.

FRED \V. MrrCHELL.

The editor of a country paper, to properly fill his position, must he a man
whose wisdom should exceed that of Solomon. He must he able to discuss
all the leading questions of the day ; e(iually shoidd know how to cure ailing
poultry or to prescribe for freckles. The work of liis paper is not sj^ecialized
as is that of the city paper and the editor must bear the greater burden, soine-
times combining the functions of reporter, editor, compositor and pressman.
His mission is to keep the citizens of the community informed of the doings
of each other and of the outside world, but pre-eminently to assist, in all
the ways in which he can. the development of that community. He must
possess marked i^ublic spirit, and country journalists have. b\' persistent
advocacy, done more for the adxanccment of the rural communities than
have the members of any other profession.

Fred A\'. Mitchell was born at Savanna. Illinois. April 6. 1877, son of
the Rev. C. H. and Lottie (Henderson) Mitchell. C. H. Mitchell was horn
in Tndirma in 1846. and his wife was born in Illinois in 1848. Fie attended
the public schools and gt"aduated froin Monmouth College at Monmouth,
Illinois, taking his theological course at Xenia Seminary. Xenia. Ohio. He
was then ordained a United Presbyterian minister and has seiwed as pa.stor
in many charges. He is now residing at Golden. Illinois. Of his four sons
and two daughters, all are living. During the Civil war he enlisted in the

750 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

hundrcd-davs service and is now a niemljer of the Grand Arniv. Three
nt his hrothers were in the army and one of them was killed, W^illiam
survivinij. l-'red Mitehell's paternal grandfather was Dr. William Mitchell,
a native <>\ Pennsylvania who came to Ohio and later moved to Indiana, and
then to Illinois, dving at Monnioiuh. The maternal grandfather was William
Henderson, an earlv settler of Illinois, where he and his wife died. All were
men and women of much worth and highly respected, and his father was a
pastor of aiiility and power.

I'red W. Mitchell was educated in the high school at Keota. Iowa, and
at Lewis Institute. Chicago, at which time he was a reporter on the Ti)iics-
Hcrald. He early showed a hent for newsi)aper work, first learning the
printer's trade at Washington. lo\va. and w hen eighteen he started a paper at
Hanover. Illinois. He was in nc\\s])a])cr work in the City of Mexico for five
years after graduation, then came back to the States and was engaged at
Desmon. Iowa, Cedar Rapids. Iowa, and Clay Center. Kansas, and then
was for a time at Chicago. He came to De Witt and bought the Dc JJ'ift
Observer on October i. 1907. of which lie has since been tlie proprietor. He
has greatly enlarged the scope of the paper and has brought it up to its present
high standard. In politics he is a Repul}lican.

On October 2(S, 1907. Mr. Mitchell was married to Florence Kay. of
Clay Center. Kansas. Mr. Mitchell has had wide experience in his profession
and is the proprietor of a paper wdiich is a credit to the county and which
exerts much influence. Personally, he is an agreeable and affable man and
has manv friends.

J. C. CONRAD & SONS.

One does not ha\e to carry his investigations far into the business and
commercial life of the city of Clinton. Iowa, to ascertain that the firm of
J. ( . ( oiuad iH: .Sons is one of the leading grocery stores of Clinton county
and that the gentlemen under whose able management it has grown to its
present large proportions are men of twentieth-century ideas, alert, aggressive
and honorable in all the relations of life. The sons of J. C. Conrad — Charles
C. and Harold P.. of whi-ni this .sketch more ])articularly treats — are of that
class of young men who would win in life's struggle under anv environment.

Charles C. Conrad was l)orn in Lansing. Iowa. May 4. 1877. the son of
John C. Conrad, who was born in 1843 in New ^'ork state, and there he grew
u|) r-nd was educated and when still a young man emigrated to Minnesota.

CLINTON COUNTY. IOWA. 751

While there the Civil war broke out and he enlisted in Company 1, of the fa-
mous First X'olunteer Infantry. Minnesota Volunteers, and he ])r()ve<l to he a
very gallant defender of the stars and stripes, having reached the rank of
sergeant when mustered out. He was a machinist by trade and after his mar-
riage he moved to Lansing. Iowa. then, in 1880, came to Clinton and started
a grocery store the following year on the same plot of ground where the firm
grocery now stands, at Xos. 412-414 Xorth Second street. He gradually
built up a very large business, in fact, the prestige of this store has for thirty
years l^een too well known throughout the county to need commenting on. At
that time this particular section of the city was all open country, with neither
buildings or trees. Here the father, John C, conducted his grocery until his
death and as his sons grew up they took the active management of the store.
For many years before his death the elder Conrad left the management of his
store to his sons and he very faithfully performed the duties of foreman at
Lamb's machine shop for a number of years. He was accidentally injured
while working there, and it is probable that this resulted eventually in his
death in igo8. He was an excellent business man and of a friendly disposi-
tion, made friends easily and always retained them. He was a member of
St. Patrick's Catholic church and his family also belongs to this congregation.
The family of John C. Conrad consisted of four children, namely :
Charles C. and Harold F., mentioned above as conducting the grocery of this
name: Mrs. Harry Ordway, of Clinton; George H., who is now deceased,
worked in the People's Trust & Savings Bank at Clinton.

Charles C. Conrad was educated in the public schools of Clinton and
before and after school hours he worked in his father's grocery — in fact, he
grew up in the business and was familiar with its every detail when quite
young. In 1904 he went into partnership with his brother, Harold F., in the
management of the grocery under the name of J. C. Conrad & Sons. This
store has the reputation of being the oldest, largest and best equipped gro-
cery in Clinton and a \ er\- large and satisfactoiy trade is carried on here at all
seasons. The store is always well stocked and is kept neat and attractive.
Charles C. Conrad is a member of the P>rotherhood of Railway Train-
men. Fraternal Order of Fagles, Mutual Benefit Association, Royal Arcanum
and the Ben Hur Society. He stands high in fraternal circles and he is a
faithful member of the Catholic church.

Charles C. Conrad married, on July 4. 1004. Sophia Zaiser, who was
born in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of William Zaiser, a printer by trade
and one of the early settlers of Lyons, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Conrad have no
children.

752

CLIXTOX COUXTY, IOWA.

Harold F. Conrad was born March 23. 1881, in Clinton. Iowa, and was
educated in the public schools here. When fifteen years of age he entered a
printing office and learned the pressman's trade. He worked in the Journal
office at Clinton and in other offices in various cities, having become a veiy
efficient man in his line so that his services were in demand. He had the repu-
tation of Ijeing verv rapid. But tiring of the somewhat monotonous life in a
printing office and seeing a better opportunity to advance himself in the gro-
cery business, he formed a partnership with his brother, Charles C. in 1904,
under the firm name of J. C. Conrad & Sons, and he has been very successful
in this line of endeavor, his pleasing manners and his uniform courtesy and
consideration rendering him popular with customers and has increased the
general prestige of the store.

MARTIN C. SOEXKSEX.

The subject of this review is a gentleman of high standing among the
citizens of Olive township, where is situated part of his valuable landed es-
tate, and to him has not been denied a full measure of success, having long
been a recognized factor of importance in connection with the agricultural
interests of the county. Like a large number of the thrifty citizens of Clin-
ton countv. Mr. Soenksen is of Germanic stock and birth. l)ut has spent most
of his active and useful life within the borders of the great Hawkeye com-
monwealth.

Martin C. Soenksen was born in Germany in 1858. and he is the son of
Brodcr Soenksen and vife. mention of whom is made under the caption on
Christ Soenkseni. in another part of this work. IMartin Soenksen remained
in his native land until he was fourteen years of age and attended school
there. He then came to the United States and settled in Center township,
Clinton county. Iowa, where he continued to go to school until he received
a very good education. He grew up on a farm which he wttrked during his
youth and he has always followed agricultural pursuits, and, being a hard
worker and a good manager, he has hem very amply rewarded and is now the
owner of a well improved and productive farm of one hundred and eightv
acres in Olive township, this county, where he has lived the past eleven years
and wlicre he has a pleasant home. He also owns one hundred and sixty acres
of valuable land in Oklahoma. He has put on most of the later improvements
on the place where he now resides, and carries on general farming and stock

•1 -^

ENOiivdfjnoj fimiiJ,

akV 'XOX'll 'HOIST

<
Z

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 753

raising, giving practically all his attention to the proper tilling of the soil and
the care and disposition of the harvests from the same.

Air. Soenksen was married in 1880 to Augusta Clausen, who was born
in Clinton county. Iowa, and is the daughter of John F. and Mary (Leveson)
Clausen. Mary Leveson's father was a very early settler in Clinton county.
Mrs. Soenksen was reared and educated in this county; both her parents are
still living in Miles, Jackson county, Iowa. The following children have
been born to Mr. and Mrs. Soenksen : Bernhard, Mary, Anna, Johnnie.
Henry, Erwin, Malinda, Selma, Hilda and Arnold. All these children are
living at home with the exception of Mary and Anna, who reside in Cali-
fornia.

Mr. Soenksen and family are members of the Lutheran church, and
politically Mr. Soenksen is a Democrat in national affairs, l)ut independent
in local affairs, preferring to vote for the man whom he believes is best
fitted to hold the ofifice sought. He himself has been contented to lead a
quiet life on his farm, not aspiring to public offices, although doubtless well
qualified to ably and faithfully discharge the duties of any of the local offices.

FRED RIXON.

The prominent business man of w'hom it is the privilege of the biographer
to wn-ite in this connection is at the head of one of the leading manufacturing
enterprises of its kind in Towa, and for this reason his name has become
widely known in the business circles of this and other states of the North.
Northwest and Southwest. Since locating at Clinton he has done much to
promote the material prosperity of the city through the medium of his busi-
ness, and as a man and citizen he has l>een equally influential in advancing
the social and rural interests of the community. Fred Rixon is a native of
northern Germany and the son of H. C. and Analie (Lund) Rixon. These
parents reared their family in the fatherland, and lived near their native place
until 1882, when they came to America and located in Chicago. In his native
country H. C. Rixon had been a merchant, but after coming to the United
States he spent the remainder of his life in retirement, dying in the year 1905,
his wife following him to the grave in 1907. Of his family of six sons and
three daughters, four of the former and all of the latter are living.

Fred Rixon was born Octol>er 18, 1855, received a collegiate education
in his native land, and in 1871 he came to the United States and spent the
(48)

754

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

ensuing two years in Chicago. Leaving that city in 1873, he located at Clin-
ton, Iowa, and accepted a clerkship in a store, in which capacity he continued
until 1 88 1, when he engaged in the retail clothing business for himself. After
ten years in that line of merchandise, he added a large stock of boots and
shoes, and during the next few years built up an extensive and lucrative pat-
ronage, and established an honorable reputation as an enterprising, judicious
and far-seeing business man. In the meantime, 1902, he formed a partner-
ship with W. A. Edwards for the manufacture of ladies' petticoats and other
garments, which enterprise grew so rapidly during the three years following,
that in 1905 he sold his store, the better to devote his entire attention to his
manufacturing interests.

Messrs. Rixon & Edwards started their factory with eight machines, but
the demand for the product was such that it was found necessary to increase
the capacitv of the plant from time to time, until there are now one hundred
and thirty-five machines in operation, turning out about one hundred thou-
sand garments annually, which find their chief markets in the states of Iowa,
Illinois, Wisconsin. Kansas. Oklahoma. Missouri and the Dakotas. The com-
pany at the present time manufactures eighty-five different kinds of garments,
which include two hundred and fifty styles in silks, satins, ginghams, muslins.
etc.. the business requiring the services of from one hundred to one hundred
and twenty-five employes, exclusive of traveling salesmen, who vary in number
from six to ten. The superior quality of all the product has created a demand
w^hich taxes the plant to the utmost to supply and, judging from the recent
rapid growth of the business, the proprietors are now considering the advisa-
bility of a still further enlargement of its capacity. Mr. Edwards dying in
February, 1909, Mr. Rixon purchased his interest, and since that time has been
virtually sole proprietor of the establishment, although in August of the year
indicated, his son, Fred, Jr., became identified with the concern and is now
vice-president of the same.

The gro\\i:h of this far-reaching enterprise has been almost phenomenal,
the chief reason for which is the high reputation of the product, the different
lines being considered the best of the kind wherever sold. Mr. Rixon has
aimed to furnish nothing but first-class goods to the trade, and that he has
succeeded in this laudable desire is amply demonstrated by the large orders
which are constantly coming from all parts of the country, and which, as
already indicated, he sometimes experiences considerable difficulty in filling.
During the past year (1909) the plant almost, if not quite, doubled its ca-
pacity, judging from which, it is easy to predict a business of greatly enlarged
proportions in the future and an establishment which will become one of the

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 755

greatest of the kind in the West. Mr. Rixon is a very careful and methodical
man. who is familiar with every phase of his business, and keeps in close touch
with the trade. To his sound judgment and superior executive ability the city
of Clinton is indebted for one of its leading enterprises and, as stated in a
preceding paragraph, he has not been unmindful of the city's welfare in other
than a material way. being interested in its social and moral advancement and
readv at all times to lend his assistance and influence to further all laudable,
charitable and humanitarian projects. In politics, Mr. Rixon votes the Re-
publican ticket, but is not a partisan, much less an aspirant for office or
public recognition, and in religion he was reared under the influence of the
Lutheran church, to the teachings of which he has always inclined.

Mr. Rixon was married on the first day of May, 1881, to Margaret D.
Diercks, daughter of Peter Diercks. one of the wealthy farmers and promi-
nent German-American citizens of Clinton county. Mr. and Mrs. Rixon are
the parents of two children, Fred, Jr., and Irene. The former was edu-
cated in the common schools and Sternman's Institute, at Dixon, Illinois, and
is now associated wath his father in the latter's manufacturing interests, being
vice-president of the company of which his father is president. After being
graduated from the Clinton high school, Irene entered Downer's College, in
Milwaukee, where she earned an honorable record as an industrious and
painstaking student. Both son and daughter are intelligent and cultured and
move in the best social circles of the city, being popular among all with whom
thev mingle. The Rixons are among the best known and most highly es-
teemed families of Clinton, and since moving to the city have filled a large
place socially and in the public eye.

MATHIAS M. THUSEN AND PETER M. THUSEN.

The gentlemen whose names appear above, lirothers in partnership in the
grocery business under the firm name of 'M. Thusen & Company, at No. 319
North Fourth street, Clinton, Iowa, are too well known in local business cir-
cles to need anv extensive comment here, for they have long maintained one
of the leading stores in this vicinity.

Mathias M. Thusen was born in the country just south of Denmark,
known as Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, August 25, 1856, and is of Danish
descent, that part of Germany having at the time of his birth been a part of
Denmark. His parents were Mathias and Christina (Thusen) Matesen. The

7^6 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

children took their mother's maiden name through some pecuHarity of the
German law when North Schleswig changed from a province of Denmark to
a province of Germany. The parents lived on a farm and died in the old

country.

]\rathias M. Thusen received a text-book training equivalent to a common
school education in this country, and when seventeen years old he emigrated
to north Denmark proper, and there he worked as a laborer on farms. When
twenty years of age he entered the Danish army, in which he served nine
months, the army not being engaged in war at that time. When twenty-four
years of age he came to the United States and located at Clinton, Iowa, where
he first worked a year in a saw mill, then for a period of six years he clerked
in a flour and feed store, thus learning the details of the mercantile business,
at which he has so admirably succeeded in later years. In 1889 he and his
brother, Peter M., formed a partnership and entered the grocery business at
No. 319 North Fourth street, in the Danish Society building, and since that
time they have been continuously engaged in business at this place, gradually
enlarging their stock and becoming more prosperous as the years went by,
gaining in prestige and popularity by their courteous treatment of all cus-
tomers and their honest dealings. They have always maintained a first-class,
neat and carefully stocked store, which is always a very busy place. They
have a very extensive trade among the Danish Germans, as well as others.

Mathias M. Thusen is a member of the Danish Lutheran church and is
a Democrat in politics. He married Marie Kair on December 5, 1885. She
came from the same district of Germany as did Mr. Thusen and is a lady of
refined tastes. Three children have been born to this union, Johanna, Mathias,
Jr.. and Christian.

Peter M. Thusen, mentioned above as brother and partner of Mathias M.
Thusen, was born December 29. 1861, in north Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.
He worked on a farm until twenty years old and in 1881, having completed
his education in the home country and ready to start life for himself, he came
to America, direct to Clinton, Towa. He first found employment in a saw
mill, tlien worked three years for Thompson & Coan, and finally, in 1889,
went into partnership with his 1)rother, Mathias M., in the grocery business
and has done his full share of the work and management of this successful
enterprise.

Peter M. Thusen was married to Anna Kair, who was born on September
14. 1864. She was a sister of the wife of Mathias M. Thusen and she came
to Clinton, low-a. in 1881, a month after the arrival of Peter M. Thusen. She
is a woman of good taste and of a good family. They have two children,
Christian and Marie.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 757

Peter M. Thusen is a Republican in politics and a member of the Danish
Lutheran church. Both he and his brother are influential in the church and
local societies of their friends and their nationality, for they have always been
known as honest, industrious citizens.

WILLIAM W. MESSER.

Among the strong and influential citizens of Clinton county the record
of whose lives have become an essential part of the history of this section,
the gentleman whose name appears above occupies a prominent place, and for
years he has exerted a beneficial influence in the city where he resides and the
interest of which he has ever had at heart, always manifesting a willingness to
do his full share as a public spirited citizen in furthering any movement look-
ing to the general good.

William W. Messer was born in Clinton, Iowa, June 21, 1858, and is
the son of Oliver and Harriet H. Messer, both natives of the state of New
Hampshire and each representing sterling old New England families. In
1856 they emigrated west arid located in Clinton, Iowa. The elder Messer
was general fuel agent and tie inspector for the Chicago Northwestern Rail-
road Company. Later he became superintendent of the local gas and water
works, a position which he very ably filled for a period of twenty years, finally
retiring, and his death occurred in 1903. He was an influential man in local
affairs and was a member of the school board for a number of years. He
never sought public office, preferring to lead a quiet life. His widow sur-
vived him until December 25, 1909. They had but one child, William W., of
this review.

The subject of this sketch was educated in the public schools of Clinton
and, applying himself very closely to his text books, received a verv service-
able education. He began assisting his father in his work when but a small
boy, and for a period of twenty years he was assistant superintendent of the
city gas and water works, being associated all the while with his father in the
work. During that time he was interested in a farm north of Lyons, although
he continued to live in Clinton. He was also interested in other business af-
fairs, having formed a partnership with E. G. Fenlon in the coal, wood, grain,
feed and implement business for a period of three years. He then fanned
again three or four years and in 1907 formed a partnership with William
Parks in the storage and transfer business, also a commission business. This

758 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

partnership still exists and they have been very successful in the same. Mr.
Messer is now the owner of a well improved and very valuable farm in Clin-
ton countv. on the outskirts of the city, on which general farming is carried
on. The place consists of three hundred and sixty-five acres, and it will rank
with the model farms of the county in every respect.

Politically. Mr. Messer is a Democrat and, while he takes much more
than a passing interest in political matters, he is no office seeker. Mrs. Messer
is a member of the Congregational church.

Mr. Messer was married in 1888 to Marie Hobein, a native of Lyons,
Iowa, where she was reared and educated and where her family has long been
prominent. This union has resulted in the birth of two children, namely :
Oliver L , who is a graduate of the Clinton high school, and Clarence W., who
is a student in the local public schools.

Leonard Hobein, father of Mrs. Messer, was born in Braunschweig, Ger-
many, February 19, 1820. His wife, Anna Maria (Racho) Hobein, was born
September 8. 1830, in Strelitz, Mecklenburg, Germany. They were married
in 1854, came to the United States that year and settled in Lyons, Iowa. The
father died on September 16, 1893, ^^ the age of seventy-three. The wife sur-
vives him and is still living in the old home, at the age of eighty years.

CHARLES E. McMAHON.

The picturesque days of the steamboats and rivermen of a generation ago
have about vanished, at least the general "atmosphere" about them seems to
"have undergone a change, and many who a few decades ago folloAved the
river have turned their attention to other things. Although the spectator
today sees craft of all kinds on the bosom of the mighty "father of waters."
the scene is different from the old days ; one cannot explain the difference, but
it exists nevertheless, and a certain glory has departed, like lost youth, never
to come again. One of the sterling and interesting characters of Clinton
county whose early life was given to service on the river is Charles E. Mc-
Mahon, who can tell many interesting stories of life as it was in the old days
on the Mississippi. He was born at Albany, Illinois. September 3, i860, and
is the son of Abner and Ruth (William) McMahon, the father born in Ohio
and the mother in Whiteside county. Illinois, to which county the father came
when a child with his parents. He was a steamboat pilot for many years on
the Mississippi river. He met death in a tragic manner, being murdered on

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 759

July 4, 1868, at Reeds Landing', Minnesota. He was regarded as one of the
best pilots on the ri\er. His family consisted of three sons and one daughter,
all living. The mother died in 1875.

Charles E. McMahon, of this review, received his education in the public
schools of Albany and Dixon, Illinois, also attending a business college. He
went on the river as a wood passer when very young, and then became mate
and pilot and later became captain for C. F. Alden, remaining as such until
1891, when he married. He had made an excellent record on the river and had
become widely known all along the Mississippi, where he had worked so long.
His next work was for the Clinton Bridge & Iron Works and was general
foreman for thirteen years, giving excellent service. He then went to work
for the Iowa Telephone Company, and worked for the bridge and iron works
during the winter. He began work in 1899 ^"^r the Iowa Telephone Company
as ground man. then as lineman. He has been inspector and manager since
January i, 1910, filling this responsible position in a manner that has won
the approval of all concerned.

Politically, Mr. McMahon is a Republican. He has been a member of
the board of education for nine years, holding the office three terms. Fra-
ternally, he belongs to the Masons, having taken all the degrees of the Scot-
tish Rite of Free Masons. He is also prominent in the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows.

Mr. McMahon was married in November, 1889, to Malinda Stark, a
nati\'e of Camanche, Iowa. This union has resulted in the birth of four chil-
dren, namely: Bessie graduated from the Clinton high school; Florence is
also a high school graduate ; Thera is deceased ; Myrta is attending the pub-
lic schools.

WILLIAM REDDEN.

The name of William Redden holds a high rank among the business men
of Clinton county. He is a man who would win his way in any locality where
fate might place him, for he has sound judgment, coupled with great energy
and business tact, together with upright principles, all of which make for suc-
cess wherever they are rightly applied, if persisted in, and by reason of the
exercise of these principles he has not only won business success but also the
confidence and good will of his fellow men.

Mr. Redden was born in Clinton, Iowa, October 16, 1873, and he is the
son of Michael and Elizabeth (McCarthy) Redden, the father born in county
Tipperary, Ireland, in 1845, ^"^1 the latter born in Wicklow, Ireland, in 1844.

760 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

The father was a laborer and when a young man he came to Clinton, Iowa,
from Ireland ; he was an honest man and a hard worker and found ready em-
ployment here. His family consisted of four sons, Matthew, Andrew, Wil-
liam and Ambrose.

William Redden was educated in the parochial schools of Clinton, and
when but a small lad he determined upon a mercantile course, and after leav-
ing school he began clerking in the retail shoe store of Kief & Clancy, learning
here the "ins and outs" of this business thoroughly. He remained with the
same firm for a period of ten years, giving the utmost satisfaction and prov-
ing an excellent employe owing to his promptness, his aptness and his cour-
tesy to customers. He could always be relied upon. In 1900 Mr. Redden
and Mr. Donlan, the latter also a clerk at the Kief & Clancy shoe store, started
in a retail shoe store of their own under the firm name of Redden & Donlan,
located on Second street. In 1906, they moved to No. 215 Fifth avenue, and
there they still maintain one of the most popular and best stocked stores in
the city. They started in business on a small scale and were compelled to
work up the trade, but both being young men of unblemished reputation and
of indomitable energy, they succeeded admirably well and now their place of
business is known throughout the county and well patronized by both the peo-
ple of the rural districts and from Clinton and Lyons.

Mr. Redden and all his family are earnest members of the Catholic
church.

On February 15, 1909, Mr. Redden married Flora Herrin. a native of
Ohio, born in 1885. She is the daughter of Francis and Agnes Herrin. an
excellent family of the Buckeye state. One child, Joseph, was born to Mr.
and Mrs. Redden on December 8, 1909.

MICHAEL THIEL.

One of the thrifty and modern twentieth-century farmers in the ^'icinity
of Calamus, Clinton county, is Michael Thiel. who, as his name would indi-
cate, is a native of that great empire across the sea from w^hemce so manv of
our best and most progressive citizens, especially of the agricultural classes,
have come — Germany — and judging from the splendid appearance of his
place he has not only inherited, but brought into actual practice, the winning
characteristics usually attributed to the Germanic race. His birth occurred
in the fatherland on March 12, 1857. and he is the son of John and Margaret

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 761

(Wingender) Thiel, both natives of Gennany. There the mother died in
1892 and on December 5, 1893, ^"''^ father came to CHnton, Iowa, where he
lived until his death, in 190T. They were the parents of five children, two
of whom are living; two died in Germany and one after the family came to
America. Two are now hving in Iowa, John, of Scott county, and Michael,
of this review\ The father was a farmer and he had a very comfortable
home. He was ninety years old wheri he crossed the ocean, accompanied by
his son, John. Hale and hearty, he never experienced seasickness and said
it was the best journey he had ever made. He lived here six years with his
sons, John and Michael, and was ninety-six years old at the time of his death.

Michael Thiel received his education in the common schools and he
grew to maturity on the home farm in Germany. He also studied after
coming to America, and is fairly well educated. He came to Scott county,
Iowa, in 1880 and remained there until 1891, when he came to Clinton
county and purchased the one hundred and sixty-acre farm. He has put all
the improvements on the same and has erected substantial and comfortable
buildings and has one of the most desirable farms in this part of the county.
He carries on general farming and raises a good grade of live stock.

In politics Mr. Thiel is a Democrat, but he has never made any effort
to be elected to public office, preferring to devote his time to his farm. He
and his family are members of the Catholic church.

Mr. Thiel was married in 1887 to Mary Gessner, a native of Ohio,
having been born in Shelby county, February 19, 1855. She is the daughter
of Michael and Anna M. Gessner, who came to Ohio in an early day. He
later moved to Scott county, Iowa, where he made his home for twenty-two
years, then moved to Benton county, this state, living at Norway the rest
of their lives. He died there on June 4, 1901 ; his widow is still living, hav-
ing reached the age of seventy-eight years.

To Mr. and Mrs. Thiel six children have been born, namely : Michael'
John, Margaret. John Ger^rge, Mary Elizabeth and Mary, the last named
being deceased.

Mr. Thiel's beautiful residence, a view of which graces this work, was
erected by himself, and in it the spirit of hospitality and good cheer is ever
in evidence. The barns and outbuildings are up to date and are all under
paint, and the entire farm is considered a model one in every respect. He
deserves great credit for what he has accomplished. When he came to
Davenport, Iowa, on November 22. 1880, his cash capital' amounted to five
cents. A Mr. Eckard paid his board for three days and he then worked two
days at picking corn. He then hired out for three months, receiving ten

762 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

dollars for the period ; and during the following three years he was employed
at a wage of eighte'en dollars a month. He then started farming on his
own account, boarding for three years, and then married. At that time he
moved to a farm of two hundred and fifty acres at Dixon, Iowa, and after
he had the place equipped he found himself twenty-two hundred dollars in
debt. But by his own careful management and the co-operation of his wife,
he has steadily pushed his way forward and is now numbered among the
leading farmers of Iowa.

JOHN JOSEPH LOGAN.

From the beautiful and far-famed Emerald Isle comes the genial gentle-
man whose life record is here briefly set forth; from the clime of the fanciful
Thomas Moore and the patriotic Charles Stewart Parnell ; from the land where
glisten the waters of Killarney and where sweeps the placid river Lee. Such
men are always desirable citizens, for they are not only congenial and cheerful
in all situations, but also men of action. John Joseph Logan, who is one of
the well known contractors of Clinton, Iowa, is a fitting type of such citizens.
He was born in county Mayo, Ireland, March 22, 1866, and is the son of Mar-
tin J. Logan, who was born and reared in Ireland and who came to America
in 1873. He located in Clinton, Iowa, and he sent for his family in 1875.
He had located on a farm near Clinton and later he moved to a farm in Center
township, this county. In 1883 he moved to Clinton and here worked as a
teamster for several years. His death occurred on May i, 1909. He was a
Democrat and a member of the Catholic church. His family consisted of four
sons and an equal number of daughters, John Joseph, of this review, being
the oldest; James, who lived in Carlisle, Iowa, died August i, 1910; Ann;
Mary married D. C. Manning and lives in Hampshire township, this county ;
Martin F. ; Margaret married A. J. Nickson, of Aurora, Illinois; Dehlia;
Hugh B. lives in Clinton.

John J. Logan was educated in the j)ublic schools of Clinton county and
a business college at Clinton, thus becoming well equipped for a business ca-
reer. After leaving school, in order to get a start he began working in a
sawmill, continuing some time, and then he was connected with the wagon
works of A. B. Spies, doing millwright work. Then for a few years he fol-
lowed contracting, finally forming a partnership with Butler King under the
firm name of King & Logan, succeeding W. J. Cook in business. They did a
very satisfactory business and in 1904 Mr. King died and since that time Mr.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 763

Logan has conducted the business alone and it has had a gradual and substan-
tial growth and has now assumed very extensive proportions. Mr. Logan un-
derstands thoroughly this line of work and he spares no pains to please his
patrons in every detail, and because of his integrit}- and business ability he
has the confidence and good will of his patrons.

Politically, Mr. Logan is a Democrat and a member of the Catholic
church; fraternally, he belongs to the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic
Order of Foresters.

Mr. Logan was married on December 30, 1903, to Mary C. Hendsey,
who was born in Clinton in 1875. Her parents died when she was an infant
and she was adopted and assumed an adopted name. To ]\Ir. and Mrs. Logan
one child has been born, named Robert James, whose birth occurred on Sep-
tember 21, 1905.

PETER N. PETERSEN.

Among the large class of progressive and honored citizens of Clinton
county who have come to us from foreign shores, none have shown more
worthy traits of character or been more active in the business affairs of the
countv than the gentleman whose biography we herewith present. Mr. Peter-
sen is the owner of a popular and well managed groceiy store in the city of
Clinton, where he has won an envied reputation for fair dealing and loyalty to
his adopted country.

Peter N. Petersen was born August 28, 1864, in Schleswig-Holstein, Ger-
many, and he is the son of Nicholas and Lena (Moritzen) Petersen. The
father was a carpenter by occupation, spending his early life in his native
country and receiving his education there, also married in his native land.
In 1882 he brought his family to America and located in Clinton, Iowa. Here
he remained, working as a carpenter until 1888, when he moved to the state
of Oregon, where he bought land and became well established, finally owning
a farm of one hundred and eighty acres, and he and the rest of the family
still live in that state, with the exception of Peter N. of this review. The
mother, Mrs. Lena Petersen, is deceased. Four children were born to Nich-
olas Petersen and wife, namely: Peter N., of this review; Christian, who
lives in Oregon ; Lena Klemsen also lives in that state ; Margaret Dethlefs.

Peter N. Petersen grew to maturity in Germany and Avas educated in the
schools of his native community. He emigrated to America with his parents
when he was eighteen years of age. After reaching Clinton, Iowa, he clerked

764 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

for Namanny & Frahm, during which time he not only rendered high class
and satisfactory service, but also learned the "ins and outs" of the business,
which has been of incalculable benefit to him in later years, for it was there
that he laid the foundation for his mercantile life. In 1888 he moved to
Oregon with his parents and lived with them on the farm there for eleven
vears. In 1899, having tired of the West and believing that he could do better
in Clinton, he returned to this city and clerked for T. S. Petersen in his gro-
cery store until 1906, and increased the popularity of this firm by his courteous
and considerate treatment of customers. In that year he went into partnership
with Jans A. Anderson, opening a general grocery store on March i, 1906,
this large and well kept store being located at No. 400 North Third street.
They carry a large and carefully selected stock and their trade has gradually
grown to large proportions and they enjoy the patronage of the best citizens
of the city. Politically, Mr. Petersen is a Democrat, but he has never sought

public office.

Mr. Petersen was married on March 22, 1900, to Sophia Christine Kroe-
ger, who was born in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, on June 13, 1870. She
came to Clinton, Iowa, from her native land in 1882, when twelve years of
age, having accompanied her parents, Henry and Anna Kroeger. This union
has been without issue.

NIS NISSEN.

The life history of Nis Nissen, one of the best known and most popular
merchants of Clinton, is deemed eminently worthy to be included in this vol-
ume along with the other representative characters of Clinton county, partly
because of its consistency to the right and partly because of its usefulness and
inspiration to others.

Mr. Nissen is an American by adoption only, having been born in Ger-
many on October 12, 1853, but the major part of his life has been spent in
this country. He is the son of John Henry and Fredericka Nissen, the father
born in Germany on January 11, 1827, and the latter in the fatherland in
1829. The father was a laborer and spent his entire life in his native land.
His family consisted of three sons and two daughters, namely : John, Martin,
Mrs. Anna Anderson, Christina, who died in Germany, and the subject.

Nis Nissen was educated in the common schools of Germany. There he
grew to maturity and took up farming for a livelihood. Believing that greater
opportunities awaited him in the new world, he bade farewell to his parental

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 765

roof-tree, when lie was nineteen years of age, and emigrated to our shores,
coming- direct to the state of Ilhnois. where he worked on a farm for a period
of four years. He came to CHnton. Iowa, in 1877, and W'Orked on a farm
for some time. He sHved his money and was all the while casting about for
something more agreeable and remunerating, so in 1886 he launched out into
the mercantile business, forming a partnership with B. M. Jacobsen. under the
firm name of Xissen & Jacobsen. They opened a dry goods and shoe store on
First avenue and Second street, which they maintained for a period of sixteen
years, enjoying a very liberal patronage with the city and surrounding coun-
try. Then for a period of five years they conducted their store at Fifth ave-
nue and Third street. This partnership continued verv- much to the mutual
advantage of both until 1907, when it was dissolved, and since then Mr. Nis-
sen has operated alone a very popular store at No. 112 South Fourth street,
carrying a large, carefully selected and tastily arranged stock of dr}^ goods,
shoes and men's furnishing goods. He is regarded as among the most pro-
gressive merchants of this city, and enjoys a very large trade among the Ger-
mans and the Danes. Mr. Nissen and his family belong to the German Luth-
eran church, and he is a member of the German Society and the Turners.

On May 10. 1881, Mr. Nissen was married to Margaret Hass, w^ho was
born in Germany on June 7, 1858, and there she grew to maturity and was
educated. She came to America in about 1879. This union has resulted in
the birth of the following children: Carl H.. who is in business with his
father; Freda, Alma and Louisa. This is one of the popular and highly re-
spected families of Clinton and numbers hosts of warm personal friends.

JAMES BRODERICK.

The profession of hotel keeping requires a peculiar fitness and much ex-
perience in order to succeed. There is a large force of servants and employes
to oversee, the kind and quality of food served must be the subject of care, and
the tastes of the public constantly regarded. And these are not the least diffi-
cult of problems, for if it is a task for the mistress of a private establishment
to keep it properly cared for by her servants, how much greater must be the
task of the hotel keeper, whose success must depend on the efficiency of his
employes in lines in which efficient help is the hardest to secure. ]\Ir. Brode-
rick seems to have mastered the problems of hotel keeping, from the manner in
w^hich his establishments have been carried on.

766 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

James Broderick was born on October 4, 1866, in Hokah, Minnesota,
the son of William and Mary Broderick, who lived and died on a farm in the
above-named state. James Broderick was given a common school education
and then went to live on a farm near Sioux Falls, South Dakota, owned by
his uncle, where he worked until twenty-two. Then he went to work on the
Chicago, St. Paul, Milwaukee & Omaha railroad, with which company he spent
twelve years as brakeman and engineer. He then came to Clinton and opened
the Tenth Avenue House, which he operated for three years successfully.
When the Northwestern shops and round house were moved in 1902 to Cam-
anche avenue, he built the Northwestern Hotel on the same avenue, and owing
to his extensive business was compelled to buy a large residence at No. 724
Camanche avenue, to help take care of the trade. He kept this house until
March 12, 1910, when he leased the Revere House, which he remodeled, and
now has one of the best hotels in the city, with sixty-five rooms, eight of which
are equipped "with private baths, and are always full. His cuisine has at-
tracted many table boarders, in which he enjoys a good trade. On May i of
the present year the Chicago & Northwestern railway put him in charge of their
eating house in the yards at Clinton and since that he has also taken the
Northwestern Hotel at Fulton, Iowa, which he opened December 12, 19 10.
After operating for two months the company has added fifty more rooms. He
opened the hotel at Janesville, Wisconsin, on November i, 19 10, close to the
Northwestern yards at South Janesville. The local lodge of Elks includes him
among its charter members.

In 1891 Mr. Broderick was married to Tillie Johnson, a native of Sioux
Falls. South Dakota, and they have one child, a daughter, Evelyn. Mr. Brode-
rick is one of the progressive and enterprising citizens of Clinton of the type
which has developed the city.

EMIL DIEBNER.

To the average man, so-called success is the reward of persistent striv-
ing and grim determination. It is sometimes gained through selfish rivalry
and competition, and frequently is attained by the aid of "pull," preference
and influence. So powerful and necessary seem these aids that the one who
cannot command them is often disheartened at his prospects of success. But
some men, like Emil Diebner, now living retired in Clinton, Iowa, have
learned how to achieve true success through the wisdom of which Solomon

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 767

said, "Length of days is in her right hand, and in her left riches and honor."
Mr. Diebner was born in Germany, March 23, 1830, and he is the son of
Cai-l August and Mary (Hoffnoster) Diebner, the father born on June 5,
1 79 1, and died in 1841 in his native country. The mother was bom on July
2, 1793. The father became well educated and he taught school in the father-
land for a period of twenty-seven years.

Emil Diebner is the only one living of a family of seven children. He
went to school to his father until he was twelve years old, or until the death
of the elder Diebner. After leaving school the son served an apprenticeship
of three years at the cabinetmaker's trade, and when twenty years of age he
went into the Prussian army and sers^ed every day for a period of two years.
In the spring of 1853 he came to America and worked in New York as a
cabinetmaker for a year or more, then turned his attention to general carpen-
tering. He came to Chicago and worked at the carpenter's trade until 1856,
then his employer, William Wentworth. brought Mr. Diebner to Clinton and
he worked for him until the panic of 1857. Since that time Mr. Diebner has
worked for himself at carpentering and building-. His mother lived with him
here until 1865, dying- on October ist of that year. When the subject came
to Clinton there were only about two dozen houses on Front street. He has
lived to see the town grow to a thriving city and has taken a conspicuous part
in its growth. Although now advanced in years, Mr. Diebner is well pre-
served, hale and hearty and still does some work. His long and active life
has been due. in large measure, no doubt, to the fact that he has always been
careful of his personal habits and has taken excellent care of himself. Al-
though he has taken a great interest in the affairs of Clinton and vicinity he
would never run for alderman, although frequently asked to do so. After the
death of his mother, he went to New Mexico for the benefit of his health.
He made the trip with four ox teams and was well armed, fearing the Indians
of the Southwest. He saw many buffalo and killed sixteen of these animals
on the outward trip. He is a very interesting talker on the old davs and of
his experiences in the West. He mined gold there and also worked at his
trade, and was very successful at the former.

Returning- East for the purpose of marrying, he espoused, on March 23,
1870, Minnie Gest, who was born on December 5. 1848. in Germany. She
came to America with her parents when she was a young girl. The following
children constitute Mr. Diebner's family : William Fredrick, Emil Carl and
Minnie. Emil is in California and William F. is engaged in business at
Eldora, Iowa. Their pleasant, substantial and neatly kept dwelling is at No.
100 North Fourth street. Mr. Diebner also owns several valuable brick build-

^68 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

ings in the same block, which he built over forty years ago. He has been very
successful in his business affairs and is well situated, but he likes carpentering
so well that he still works occasionally "for old time's sake." Politically, he is
liberal in his views.

JOHN E. PURCELL.

Conspicuous among the represcTitative business men of Clinton, Iowa,
is the well-known gentleman whose name introduces this biographical re-
view. The industrious and well-regulated life he has led has gained for him
not only material success, but the friendship, confidence and good-will of a
vast acquaintance.

John E. Purcell is a native of Clinton, having been born here on
April 5, 1866, and he is the son of James and Mary (Conner) Purcell. The
father was born near Limerick, Ireland, and died in 1873, while the mother's
birth occurred in Canada ; she is still living. James Purcell was a contractor
by occupation and he was sixteen years of age when he came to America
and settled in southern Illinois. He was very successful in his line of endeavor
and established a good home here. His family consisted of two sons and
two daughters, John E.. of this review, being the first in order of birth;
the others are Charles J., an engineer on the Northwestern railroad; Mrs.
Margaret Calnan and Anna.

John E. Purcell was educated in the public schools of Clinton and
finished at St. Mary's school. Leaving the school room, being equipped with
a good practical' education, he began life for himself as clerk in the grocery
store of O'Donnell & Calnan, where he remained two years, during which
time he gained many valuable pointers relative to the mercantile business.
He then clerked two years for the grocery firm of Hall & Pollard, then went
to the store of S. C. Seaman, where he remained three years. He then went
to Denver, Colorado, and clerked two years for the McNamarrah Dry Goods
Company, giving his usual satisfaction. He always took more or less interest
in athletics, especially outdoor sports, and he played baseball with the Denver
City League, and he was a member of a brass band at Denver. He then
returned to Clinton county and was later salesman in the city trade of Chi-
cago for the Drummond Tobacco Company, later working in southern Iowa.
He was a traveling salesman for twelve years in northern Illinois for Dean
Brothers & Lincoln, wholesale grocers, remaining with them until they
went out of business, being considered one of their most efficient and trust-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 769

worthy employes. Then for two years he was in the employ of the Steele-
Wecldells Company of Chicago, resigning his position July i, 1905. He then
started in business for himself at Clinton, Iowa, opening a shoe store under
the firm name of Henley & Purcell. One year later Mr. Purcell bought out
his partner's interest, and on February i, 1909, moved the store to No. 305
Main street, Lyons, where he still conducts the same and enjoys a very liberal
patronage from tlie town and surrounding country, having a neat and well-
kept store and carrying an up-to-date and carefully selected stock* of goods.

Mr. Purcell is a member of the Knights of Columbus; in fact, he organ-
ized the lodge at Clinton, and was the first grand knight and charter member
of Sterling Council. No. 662. at Sterling, Illinois. On October 2, 1902. he
transferred his membership to St. Edward's Council at Clinton. Politically,
he is a Democrat, but independent locally, and he is a prominent Catholic.

Mr. Purcell was married on June 19, 1895, to Louise Victoria Henle,
who was born June 11, 1865, in Lyons, and is the daughter of Mathias and
Theresa ( Staley) Henle, a well-known and high respected family, and this
union has resulted in the birth of the following children : Theresa Maiy,
Louise Marie, Anna, Helen (deceased), Josephine, Dorothy, Margaret Ber-
nardine, Catherine Natahe and Mary Elizabeth.

NICHOLAS NAEVE, JR.

The Naeve family is eminently deserving in every respect to be mentioned
at proper length in a history of Clinton county, owing to the fact that its
several members have borne the \ery l^est of reputations and have been, with-
out exception, industrious and have done their full share in developing the
county. They are known as progressive agriculturists and believe in keeping
abreast of the times.

One of the well known representatives of this family is Nicholas Naeve,
Jr., who has a valuable and well-kept landed estate in Hampshire township.
He was born in this county, on April 21, 1869. and is the son of Nicholas
Naeve, Sr., and Lizzie Henicke, both born in Germany, the former on August
23, 1832, and the latter on May 6. 1839. The father came to America with
his parents in 1846 or 1847, and this family located at Davenport, near which
city the subject's grandfather, Fred Naeve, owned a farm, and there Nicholas
Naeve, Sr., grew to maturity and became a farmer. He was educated in the

(49)

770 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

schools there, and he was married in that locaHty in about i860, coming to
Chnton county soon afterwards and renting land until he could get a start.
He finally bought one hundred and sixty acres in Center township and later
bought one hundred and seventy acres in Hampshire township. He was a
very successful farmer and became a man of considerable influence in his com-
munity. His family consisted of eight sons and four daughters, namely:
William, deceased ; Henry, Mrs. Mary Bohaldt, Mrs. Louisa Stigemann, Fred,
Mrs. Anna Ehlers. Chris, Nicholas, Jr., Mrs. Carrie Schroeder and Albert.

Nicholas Naeve, Jr., of this review, received his education in the public
schools and he began very early to assist his father with the general work on
the home farm and he remained there with him. When he married he moved
on the farm of one hundred and seventy acres in Hampshire township, which
he has worked to advantage, keeping up to a high standard of improvement
and making a pronounced success of general farming and stock raising. He
has a good farm and a veiy comfortable home, and he believes in keeping
everything in first class condition about his place, being one of the leading
farmers in this community.

Mr. Naeve was married on March 5, 1895 to Mita Aheins. who was born
in Center township, this county, on July 2, 1870. She is the daughter of
Christopher Aheins, a native of Germany and one of the first settlers of Center
township, where he was well known and prominent among the pioneers. Here
Mrs. Naeve was reared and educated. She has borne her husband one inter-
esting child, Hortensa. whose birth occurred on October 23, 1904.

SAMUEL CREVELING.

The subject of this sketch is an honorable representative of an old and
esteemed family of Clinton county, and he has spent his life in the homestead
in Hampshire township which he now owns. His paternal grandfather. Alex
Creveling, was a native of Westmoreland county. Pennsylvania, but in an
early day moved to Ohio, where he lived for a number of years. In his old
age he returned to Pennsylvania and died many years ago in the countv of his
birth. George W. Creveling. the subject's father, was born in Pennsylvania,
and about the year 1844 or '45 moved to Iowa, making the journey by wagon,
and locating originally in Clinton township, Clinton county. Later he changed
his residence to Hampshire township, where he had previously bought one
hundred and sixty acres of land, and subsequently increased his farm by pur-

CLINTON COUNT Yj IOWA. 77 1

chasing an additional eighty acres in the same locality. In due time he
brought his land to a high state of cultivation, made good improvements, .and
for a number of years ranked among the leading agriculturists and stock
raisers of his part of the county. He lived a quiet life, exerted a beneficial
influence among his neighbors, and all with whom he came into contact spoke
in high terms of his many sterling qualities. In his young manhood, he mar-
ried Catherine Webb, daughter of Thomas Webb, who bore him five sons and
three daughters, three of the former and two of the latter still living. George
W. Creveling departed this life in November, 1882, his good wife following
him to the unknown country beyond death's mystic stream, on the 2nd day
of December, 1891. Thomas Webb, father of Mrs. Creveling, was a native
of Columbia county, Pennsylvania, and his wife, who prior to her marriage,
bore the family name of Edwards, was born in England. Mr. and Mrs.
Webb were married in the former's native county and state and ended their
lives there, both dying a number of years ago.

Samuel Creveling was bom September 19, 1855, in Clinton county, Iowa,
received a common school education, and grew to maturity on the family
homestead in Hampshire township, where he now lives. He was reared to
agricultural pursuits and assisted his father in the farm until attaining his
majority, when he began life. for himself as a tiller of the soil, a vo'cation he
has followed with success and profit to the present time. In 1883, the year
following his father's death, he bought the homestead and has since lived on
the same, having made a number of substantial improvements. His farm
contains one hundred and sixty acres of land, which in point of fertility and
productiveness are not exceeded by any like area in the county, and which,
under his efficient labors and good management, have been brought to a high
state of cultivation, comparing favorably with the best farms in Hampshire
township at the present time. As a farmer. ^Ir. Creveling is energetic and
progressive, using modern methods in cultivating the soil, and he seldom, if
ever, fails to realize abundant returns for his time and labor. In connection
with general agriculture, he devotes considerable attention to live stock, which
he finds an important branch of farming, and his success has been such that
he is now the possessor of a handsome competency and in independent cir-
cumstances.

In his political affiliation, Mr. Creveling is a Republican, and though well
informed as to the leading questions of the day and public matters in general,
he is not an office seeker, preferring the quiet and contented life he now leads
to any honor within the power of his fellow citizens to bestow. Honest and
straightforward in all his dealings, and the soul of honor in his relations with

^^2 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA,

his fellow-men, his character has ever been above reproach, and wherever
known he is highlv esteemed for his high standing as a man and citizen.

Mr. Creveling was united in marriage with Dora T. Sundergard. who was
born in Schleswig-Holstein, (Germany, and \\ho came to America in her girl-
hood and grew to maturity in the state of Iowa. The family of Mr. and Mrs.
Creveling consists of four children, wliose names are as follows: Samuel
Preston, George W., Elmer and Lyman, all living and, with their parents,
constituting a mutually happy and prosperous home circle. All of the above
sons are intelligent and well educated, having been given the best school ad-
vantages obtainable in their youth. After finishing the common branches in
the district schools, they entered successively the high school of Lyons, from
which they were graduated in due time with honorable records.

JAMES H. SPENCE.

One of the leading veterinarians of eastern Iowa is James H. Spence, of
Clinton, who has made a success of his calling because he thoroughly prepared
himself for it and has worked conscientiously and kept abreast of modem in-
vestigation and research. He long ago succeeded in impressing his strong
personality upon the people of Clinton and vicinity, whose interests he has at
heart and which he has always manifested a desire to promote. He is an
American by adoption only, having been born in London, Ontario, Canada,
the date of his birth being September 2, 1866. He is the son of William
Spence, who was born in Scotland in November, 1840, and who married
Martha Dowzer, a native of Ireland. William Spence came to Canada when
a mere lad, with his parents, and settled on a farm near London, province of
Ontario. He eventually owned a farm near the same place and he and his
wife still live there, being very comfortably established. Religiously, the
elder Spence is a Presbyterian, as are, in fact, the other members of the fam-
ilv. He is a member of the United Workmen lodge.

James H. Spence. of this review, is the oldest of a family of five sons
and two daughters, the others being William D., John Charles, Robert N.,
Walter L., Mrs. Clara Uren and Mrs. Edna McFarlan.

The gentleman whose name heads this review was educated in the public
schools of his native community in Ontario, Canada, and he remained on his
father's farm until he was twenty years old, then attended the Ontario Vet-
erinary College at Toronto, Canada, where he made a splendid record and

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 773

from which institution he was graduated in the class of 1890. He located at
Wyoming, Ontario, where he remained one year, then in December, 189 1, he
came to Clinton, Iowa, and he has had a very successful practice ever since,
with a gradual increase from year to year until he is recognized at present as
the best veterinary surgeon in Clinton county. He keeps w^ell posted on cur-
rent events, especially along scientific lines and in all matters pertaining to his
profession. Although he is a Democrat, his ability was recognized by the Re-
publican administration and he was appointed assistant state veterinarian. He
was also appointed by the federal government examiner of stock for exporta-
tion to Canada, and this position he continues to hold to the entire satisfac-
tion of all concerned. His office is located at the Hart livery stables, Nos.
117-121 Sixth avenue, Clinton, Iowa. He is always kept busy and his patrons
come from remote districts.

Doctor Spence is a member of the Presbyterian church, and, fraternally,
he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Masons, the Mod-
ern Woodmen, the National Union and the Mystic Workers. He takes a
lively interest in fraternal affairs and is prominent in lodge matters.

Doctor Spence was married March 8, 1894, to Josephine Hall, w^ho was
born in Wheatland, this county, June 26, 1874. She is the daughter of Abra-
ham and Rhoda (Schneider) Hall, who are still living at Wheatland. Mr.
Hall, who is retired, having formerly been in the lumber business, came to
Clinton county after the Civil war. in which he was government photographer
in the United States armv and afterwards a soldier.

WILLIAM H. McKENNA.

The Irish have the qualities which l>ring them to the front everywhere
if but a chance is given them. Chances have been few^ and far between for
them in their native country, but in this country they have found many op-
portunities and have taken advantage of them. Mr. IMcKenna, a young man,
born in Ireland, without advantages, is an eloquent example of the indomitable
Irish spirit, for by his own efforts he has raised himself to an enviable position
and has ser^^ed the county of his adoption well in public office.

William H. McKenna was born on July 24, 1869, in county Tyrone,
Ireland, the son of Charles and Sarah f Alalone) McKenna. His grandpar-
ents were farmers in Ireland and spent their lives there. His parents came
to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1880 and settled in Center Grove, Washington

774 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

township, and three years later removed to Clinton, where his father died
January 7, 1907. and his mother now lives. Charles McKenna was popular
among his fellows, and was a strong adherent of the Democratic party. To
the last he was faithful to the Catholic religion of his fathers.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles McKenna were the parents of eight children:
Katherine, who married Bryan Manny, a farmer living in Cuyahoga county,
Ohio: William H. ; James, a motorman in Clinton; Hannah, who married
fohn Doherty, who is operating a typewriter agency in Chicago; Anna, who
was trained as a nurse at Mercy Hospital, at Davenport, and married J. L.
Tracy, a switchman for the Northwestern railroad in Clinton ; Margie, who
married James Dillon, and died in December, 1905 ; Edward, an electrician in
Chicago; and John C. who is connected with his brother-in-law, Mr. Doherty,
in the typewriter agency. The sons are all Democrats.

William H. McKenna attended the Christian Brothers school at Omagh,
county Tyrone, Ireland, and the common schools of Clinton county and Clin-
ton. When about fifteen he began working in W. J. Young's saw mill, receiv-
ing sixty cents per day at first. He continued in the saw^mill for five years,
then worked for the grocery firm of Hayes & Murphy until March, i'898. In
that month Mr. McKenna, stirred with the spirit of patriotism towards his
adopted country, enlisted in Company L, Forty-ninth Regiment Iowa Volun-
teers, and served through the Spanish-American war. His regiment was
sent to Cuba in December. 1898, and remained on patrol and guard duty there
until May 13. 1899. This regiment was under the command of Gen. Fitzhugh
Lee and Colonel Dowes. Mr. McKenna was detailed as commissary clerk and
seiwed in that capacity throughout the greater portion of his enlistment.

On his return from the war Mr. McKenna re-entered the employ of
Hayes & Murphy, but after two years went into the grocery business in part-
nership with P. H. McCarthy, under the firm name of McCarthy & McKenna.
In 1908 he sold his interest to Mr. McCarthy's son. The Democratic party
nominated Mr. McKenna for the office of recorder of Clinton county in 1906;
be was successful in tlie election and has since that time administered the
duties of the position in a conscientious and impartial manner. He has won
the respect of the public for his efficiency and has added many to his already
large list of friends. He is a member of the Catholic church.

On June 8, 1899, Mr. McKenna was married to Edith M. Sill, the daugh-
ter of Charles and Elizabeth (Blessing) Sill, born at Lisbon, Iowa, June 8,
1874. Her father was a merchant at Lisbon, and died when Edith was three
years old : her mother lives on Camanche avenue in Clinton. To this mar-
riage three children have been born, Marion Elinor, July 10, 1900; Margie

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 775

Elizabeth, December 17. 1905; Maiy Edith, March ii, 1907. They are very
bright and interesting Httle girls.

Mr. McKenna stands high in the regard of the people of his county, and
has won an enviable success for a young man whose early circumstances were
less than ordinarily favorable, but which, thanks to his ability, did not hold
him down.

ROBERT GEORGE BRUMER.

Deserving the many successes that have come to him, Robert George
Brumer, one of the best known jewelers in Clinton county, may well antici-
pate greater reward further along in life's journey, being now in the prime of
manhood. He is held in highest esteem throughout this locality, for he has
been honorable and upright at all times.

Mr. Brumer is of German descent and was born at Pekin, Illinois, on
August 30, i860. He is the son of Ferdinand and Louisa (Hoelscher)
Brumer, both born in Germany, the father on Januaiy 3, 1832, and the mother
on May 24. 1834. They grew to maturity and were educated there, but came
to America single, Mr. Brumer coming to New Orleans in 1850 and two years
later he lived at St. Louis for a short time. He was married at Charleston,
South Carolina, and finally moved to Pekin. Illinois, in the middle of the
fifties and he conducted a flouring mill there during the Civil war. Earlier in
life he had engaged in merchandising. He served in the Union army for a
time in the early sixties, having enlisted in an Illinois volunteer infantry regi-
ment, and he saw some hard service, being wounded by a bayonet thrust. In
1868 he returned to Gennany, taking his family and, retiring from business,
he lived there until his death. His family consisted of four sons, namely:
Louis, now deceased; Robert George, of this review; Gustav A., and Ulysses
S., living in DeWitt, Iowa.

Robert G. Brumer, of this review, was eight years old when his parents
moved to Germany from Illinois and he received a good education in the
public schools and high schools of the fatherland. Early in life he began
learning the watchmaker's trade and he visited other countries of Europe in
order to complete his education in that line. Thus well equipped for his
chosen life work, he returned to America, locating in Clinton. Iowa, in 1880,
and he began to work for E. H. Howes in a jewelry store. In 1886 he and
his brother Gustav foiTned a partnership and opened a jewelry store in the
Davis block on Second street, under the firm name of Brumer Brothers. In

776 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

1887 they moved to their present location on Fifth avenue. They started in
a small way in their original store, but by judicious management and honest
and courteous treatment of their thousands of customers during the past quar-
ter of a centur}^ they have built a large and ever-growing trade and have one
of the best known stores of this kind in the county. They carry a large and
full line of jewelry, in fact, everything commonly found in the best and up-
to-date jewelry stores. They do a high grade of goldsmithing and all kinds
of repair work on watches, etc. The Brumer Brothers also carry on and
manage the Eurema Company, which was organized about 1900. They manu-
facture a soldering fluid used in fusing gold, requiring very little heat. The
owners got the idea of this excellent fluid from their early education among the
goldsmiths of Germany and Switzerland. The products of the Eurema Com-
pany have a very wide sale and are handled by every jobber in the United
States.

Robert G. Brumer is prominent in lodge circles, being a chapter Mason
at Clinton and a member of every lodge in this city. On September 22, 1885,
he was married to Elizabeth Flick, who was born in Germany on July 31,
1862, and this union has resulted in the birth of three children, Ferdinand Rob-
ert, Gustav A. and Herbert Bismark.

MARTIN INGWERSEN.

Herein is mentioned one of the successful business men of Clinton, who
has made himself known and felt in the business world outside of his city,
and has been prominent in the councils of his fellows of the same business
throughout the state. He has done much to bring about between those en-
gaged in similar businesses something of co-operation and of that working
together for general business betterment, which can not fail in making con-
ditions better for both producer and consumer. He is another of those Ger-
man immigrants who have by their own efforts achieved prosperity in busi-
ness, starting with nothing and beginning life as a laborer. Certainly such
a career shows the possession of more than ordinary powers to cope with
the difficulties of life.

Martin Tngwersen was born in Germany, June 16, i860, the son of
I. M. and Margaret (Soenksen) Tngwersen. His parents were born in Ger-
many, and there his father died in 1893, and his mother in 1881. They were
the parents of three children, of whom all are living. The father lived a

MARTIN INGWERSEN

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 'J'JJ

quiet life, giving his attention entirely to his occupation, of which he was
very fond. He left to his children the heritage of a strong character.

Martin Ingwersen attended the common schools, was reared on the
farm, and served three years in the German cavalry, a valuable experience.
In the spring of 1883 he came to America and located in Clinton county. He
first worked on a farm, then in a sawmill, beginning in this humble manner.
He was next in the employ of the Standard Oil Company, and later obtained
a position in the bottling establishment of Arlen & Son of Clinton. In 1890,
Charles Arlen, Sr., the founder of the business, died and Alartin became a
partner with Edward A. Arlen, and this partnership still continues. The
business has increased to very large proportions since then, and is one
of the leading establishments of the city. It is located at No. 600 South
First street. Mr. Ingwersen is also engaged in the coal and wood business,
which adds a handsome profit to his income. He has been among the most
active in building up the Iowa State Bottlers' Association, and the Iowa
Liquor Dealers' Association, and has been president of both these organiza-
tions and represents them both on the national executive boards. In politics,
he is a Democrat. Both he and his wife are members of the German Lutheran
church. In fraternal relations he is a member of the Knights of Pythias,
and holds the office of colonel in the LTniform Rank. He also belongs to the
Elks, the Eagles, the German Society, and the Turner Society.

Mr. Ingwersen was married in 1886 to Marie Carstensen, a native of
Iowa. To their union three children were born : Andrea, Avorking in his
father's office; Paul, employed in Denver: and Ella, working in her father's
office. Marie Ingwersen died in 1891. and ]\Ir. Ingwersen later married
Frances Moeser, also a native of Clinton county. She is the mother of three
children : Hugo, a student at AVartburg College ; Mollie. in the public schools,
and Frieda.

Mr. Ingwersen is a man of recognized and unquestioned business ability
of a high order, and a citizen of much public spirit.

ROBERT D. COOPER.

One of the best known and most influential men in Hampshire township
is Robert D. Cooper, owner of the widely known Brookside farm, Avho lived
to see and take part in the wonderful development that has characterized
Clinton county, having always stood ready to aid in whatever way he could

7^8 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

the furthering of all worthy objects looking to the general good, and he is
therefore held in the highest esteem by all who know him. He comes to us
from the Atlantic seaboard, having been born near Bernington. New Jersey,
April I, 1849, ^"d he is the son of James and Charlotte (Snyder) Cooper,
both natives of the state of New Jersey, the father born in the vicinity of
Bernington on February 10, 1826.

In i860 James Cooper brought his family west to Illinois and then set-
tled near Peoria, and remained there one year, then they came to Clinton
county, Iowa, in the fall of 1861. The father bought eighty acres in Center
township. Later he sold out and bought another farm of one hundred and
forty acres in Lincoln township, one mile south of his first place. In 1895
he rented his place and moved to Clinton and retired. His death occurred in
July, 1901, and that of his wife thirty-one years previously, in 1870. He
was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Only two of his children
survive. ]\Iary Alice and Robert D. of this review.

Robert D. Cooper received his first schooling in New Jersey and finished
in Iowa. After leaving school he remained on his father's farm until he was
twenty-two years of age. He started in life for himself by buying eighty
acres in Hampshire township and he has been a farmer ever since. In 1875
he bought a farm of eighty acres in Hampshire township, which he added
to his former purchase, and he now has three eighties together. He has
placed all modern and substantial buildings on his farm and has it well im-
proved in every particular. He has been very successful as a general farmer.

Mr. Cooper was married on December 25, 1871, to Betsy Ann Ashpole,
who was born in Ohio, September 27, 1853. She is the daughter of John
and Jane Ashpole. who came from England in 1845 ^"^1 located in Ohio.
Later came to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1850. making the long journey overland
with wagon and team.

To Mr. and Mrs. Cooper the following children have been born : Char-
lotte Jane, born on February 15. 1873. married George R. Housen October
4, 1893, and they have one son. Robert John ; \A^alter B.. born February 24,
1878. was married December 14. 1899, to Ida Egland. of Lincoln township,
and they have four children, Oliver R., Walter J.. .Artliur B. and Burnice A. ;
Mabel Grace, born February 23. 1887; Albert Earl. l)orn November 2^, 1891.

Mr. Cooper is a memljer of the ^Methodist Episcopal church and in poli-
tics he is a Republican. He lias held all the townshi]! offices and is prominent
in local affairs.

Mr. Cooper is a well informed man and he is looked upon by his neigh-
l>ors as a leader and ad\-iser. his past honoral)le and successful record \\arrant-

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 779

ing their utmost confidence. His example is followed in reference to markets,
etc. He has been greatly assisted in his successful life work by his wife, who
is a woman of superior ability in many respects, and much of his success has
been due to licr judicious counsel and encouragement.

HENRY LINDMEIER.

Another of the young farmers of Hampshire township, Clinton county,
who is one of the foremost citizens of his locality is Henry Lindmeier. who
has established a firm reputation for honesty of purpose in all his dealings
with his fellow man and by being the advocate of clean and wholesome prin-
ciples in the home, society and politics. He has the sterling traits character-
istic of his family, which is of German blood, he being of the second genera-
tion in America, and his birth occurred in Hampshire township, Clinton
county. Iowa, on the home place, December 29. 1885. He is the son of John
H. and Margaret (Greve) Lindmeier, both born in Germany, the father in
1835, ^^'^^^ his death occurred in 1906.

John H. Lindmeier grew to maturity in his native land and was educated
there. In 1856 he emigrated to America and first worked about Chicago for
awhile, hiring out at various pursuits until he was married, after which he
bought two hundred and twenty acres in Hampshire township, Clinton county,
and in later years bought sixty acres more. He improved his land and en-
gaged in general farming and stock raising, being quite an extensi\e cattle
feeder. He laid by a competency and had a very comfortable home by renson
of his industr}', honesty and persistency.

To John H. Lindmeier and wife the following children were born :
Mrs. Anna Bremer: Emil and John, both deceased; Otto, William, Mrs.
Emma Hansen. George, Ella; Henry, of this review, being the youngest of
the family.

Mr. Lindmeier attended high school at Lyons, where he made a splendid
record for scholarship and from which institution he was graduated in 1903.
He later attended the Towa Agricultural College at Ames, where he took a
special course in agriculture and well qualified himself for his life work, after
which he returned to the farm and has since devoted his attention exclusively
to this line of endea^'or, applying to the soil modern and most approved agri-
cultural metliods, so that quite naturally he reaps the greatest results possible
and only a cursory glance over his splendidlv kept place is sufficient to show

-rgO CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

that his ideas are not onl}^ the most practical but the most artistic and al-
too-ether desirable. Although a young man, he could teach many of the old
pioneers a thing or two in the way of scientific and practical farming, and,
judging by the strides he has made in the past, it is safe to predict that the
future holds much of success in store for him. He has a cozy, neat and at-
tractively located dwelling and substantial outbuildings. Everything about
him shows the exercise of good taste and industry as well. Mr. Lindmeier
makes a specialty of raising Poland-China hogs and they are of such superior
quality that they find a very ready sale.

On August 31, 1909, Mr. Lindmeier was married to Anna Carstensen,
who was born in Greene county. Iowa, on March 31, 1889. the daughter of
August and Mary (Nahnson) Carstensen, an early settler there and a highly
respected citizen. Mrs. Lindmeier is a young lady of many estimable traits,
and. like her husband, is popular with a wide circle of friends.

Mr. Lindmeier is a pleasant man to meet, genial, wholesouled, a good
conversationalist, well posted on agriculture, horticulture and kindred sub-
jects, as well as the current topics of the day and with the world's best litera-
ture. His ideals and ideas are high ; he applies his education to his practical
afifairs and finds that it pays both in convenience and pecuniaiT rewards.

AUGUST HARTMANN.

Many of the best farmers of today rely on something other than general
farming to insure them an annual income, and thus if one thing fails they suc-
ceed with another. One of the farmers of Lincoln township, Clinton county,
who is an avarian of much local reputation is August Hartmann, who is mak-
ing a success of whatever he turns his attention to.

Mr. Hartmann was born in the city of Clinton, this county, on February
26. 1874. and he is the son of Christian Peter and Margaret Morritsen, both
born in the province of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, which country was
foiTnerly a part of Denmark, the father born on May 8, 1846, and the mother
born on August 20. 1846. The father learned the trade of painter in his
native land and became an expert at the same, which he worked at for some
time there, and in 1870 he emigrated to the United States and settled in
Clinton. Towa. continuing at his trade for a period of sixteen years, when,
his health failing, he gave up his trade, although there was a great demand
for his services, and purchased eighty acres of land in Lincoln township

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 781

which he farmed for a period of twenty }ears, then in lyoj he hought ten
acres near Chnton. He remodeled the huilding on this land and moved to it,
retiring from active work. His son, Bernard, the subject's only brother,
lives on his eighty-acre farm, the old homestead.

August Hartmann, of this review, was educated in the public schools of
Clinton, Iowa, and after leaving school he stayed at home, assisting his father
with the work on the farm and in maintaining a dairy. The son sold milk,
etc., at wholesale. At present August lives with his parents and is engaged
in small fruit growing, principally for the local markets. He also keeps a
large number of bees and he has about one thousand pounds of honey annually
for the market, which is eagerly sought after. He understands well the
care of bees and has one of the best aviaries in the county, and he is also well
posted on horticultural subjects so that he is making a success of his fruit
growing. He has remained unmarried, preferring to care for his aged par-
ents, delighting in ministering to their every want. He is a hard-working,
unassuming young man and is deeply interested in the general improvement
of his locality and county, and is always ready to help along a good cause.

CLEM KRUMPELMANN.

Success has crowned the efforts of the gentleman whose name introduces
this biographical re\'iew because he has spared no pains in developing himself
along the chosen lines of his. life work, and he has always sought to do his
best and treat his fellow men as he would have them treat him.

Clem Krumpelmann. one of the best known jewelers of Clinton county
and a highly respected citizen of Lyons, Was born in Prussia, Germany,
December 17, 1862. He is the son of George and Carrie (Artman) Krumpel-
mann. wlio were natives of the fatherland and spent their lives there, the
mother's people being of Hanover. The father was for some time a soldier
in the army there and served in the war of 1848. Their family consisted of
four sons. Clem being the third in order of birth; Henry, August and Frank
are all deceased.

The subject was educated in the schools of his native land and learned
the watchmaker's trade there. Knowing that ready employment awaited the
skilled artisan in the L^nited States, he emigrated to St. Louis, Missouri, in
1882, and lived in the Mound City for one year and a half, working at his
trade, then left the Missouri metropolis and came to Lyons. Iowa. He had

782 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Strained his eyes by too close application to his trade, and in order to recover he
worked at farming and general labor for awhile after coming to Clinton
county. He spent two years in the state of Arkansas, and in 1902 he started a
general jewelry store at No. 706 Main street, Lyons, Iowa, and although he
had a capital at that time of but one hundred dollars he has by hard and honest
work gradually built up an excellent business, now maintaining a neat and
well stocked jewelry store, and he does all kinds of repairing, being one of
the best men in his line in the county. He is steady and industrious, unassum-
ing and believes in attending strictly to his individual affairs. He takes con-
siderable interest in church work, but does not mingle with the political con-
tingent to any great extent. He belongs to the German Catholic church and
is a member of the German Workman's society.

Mr. Krumpelmann was married on June 13, 1904, to Mary Dickman, who
was born in Lyons in 1865. She is the daughter of Joseph and Theresa
(Beckerman) Dickman, early settlers of Lyons. Mr. and Mrs. Krumpelmann
have no children.

THOMAS C. HANNAHER.

Whether the spirit of the times prevailing at the period of a person's
birth has anything to do with his career is a question the biographer will leave
to the psychologists and metaphysicians, yet it is worthy of note here that
Thomas C. Hannaher, a well known and successful grain and flour dealer at
Lyons. Iowa, was born, as Macaulay, the great English writer, would have
said, "in the brave days of old," the epoch of the famous "forty-niners," and
whether that had anything to do with it or not. he has been very successful in
his life work and has shown a progressive and courageous spirit in overcoming
life's obstacles. His birth occurred at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, on June 10,
1849, and he is the son of Patrick and Margaret (O'Conner) Hannaher, both
born in county Mayo, Ireland, the father on Januaiy 25, 1813, and the mother
in 1823. Tliey grew to maturity there and were educated in the home schools
and married there. In order to escape the terrors of the famine of 1848 they
emigrated to .\merica, and located in Pittsburg. Pennsylvania. Thev lived
there till 1852. and li\e(l for a short time at St. Charles, Carroll county.
Illinois. They came to Lyons. Iowa, in 1855 and started a general merchan-
dise store on the corner of Fourth and Main streets when Lyons was a mere
hamlet. The father. Patrick Hannaher, was one of the most important and
influential men in the early days of Lyons' history and did as much, if not

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 783

more, than any other man in developing" the place. He was looked upon as
a leader and was a strong and admirable character and carried the farming
on with credit up to 1861. He was the man who established Main street and
laid it out in its present position, running due east and west. It formerly
ang-led to the southeast from Sixth street and the position of the old street
is still shown. In 1868 he built the Hannaher block, a three-story brick build-
ing, which was one of the first large blocks in Lyons. At that time a three-
story brick block w'as quite a novelty in this place, but the town grew rapidly
and Mr. Hannaher's wisdom in placing faith in its future was jiroven. He
gave up merchandising in 1861 and entered the grain business, buying and
selling large quantities of grain wdiich he usually stored in Lyons, — in fact,
he became one of the leading and best known buyers in the Northwest in his
day. He built a line of elevators along the northwest and retired from active
business in 1880. He was highly esteemed by all classes and recognized bv
all as one of the most prominent men of Lyons in his day and one of the best
friends of the place. His family consisted of eleven children, named as fol-
lows: John died in Dakota; Thomas C, of this review; Patrick and Mary
both died in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania; Charles, James Edward, Mrs. Dehlia
O'Donnell, Margaret; Mary is deceased; Mrs. Anna Henley; Catherine is a
Sister of Charity at Lyons, serving under the name of Sister Augusta.

Thomas C. Hannaher was educated in the public schools of Lyons, low^a,
completing his education at St. Mary's College, on the lake at Chicago. (This
institution is not now in existence.) In 1870 he went into business as a
partner with his father in the grain buying and flour manufacturing business.
They owmed and operated large elevators and mills on Front street and they
carried on a very large business. The son took active charge of the business
in 1880. the father retiring. Thomas C. Llannaher was also engaged in buy-
ing and shipping live stock. He has been very successful in whatever he has
engaged in and has long been regarded as one of the leading business men
of Lyons. He practically retired from active business in 1900, but he still
looks after his large interests in a general way and has charge of a thriving
grocery store and a flour and grain business.

Mr. Hannaher is a loyal and prominent Catholic and he organized the
Order of Hibernians in Lyons when he was a young man. At a very early
age he began taking an active part in local politics and when twenty-one years
of age he was elected alderman of Lyons on the Democratic ticket, and he be-
came mayor of the city at the age of twenty-six, and for a number of years
during his active life he was a prominent figure at all political meetings. He
filled the office of mayor in a manner that reflected much credit upon himself

784 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA,

and to the entire satisfaction of all concerned, irrespective of party. He did
a f reat deal for the good of the city and community, carrying forward in a
very laudable manner the commendable work begun by his worthy father.

Mr. Hannaher was married on May 18, 1875. to Martha Jane Edney.
who was born at Vincennes, Indiana, and who came to Lyons in 1865. Four
children have been born to this union, namely: Thomas E., William John
and Leo Patrick ; the two latter are traveling in vaudeville in which they are
making a great success all over the country ; Anna B. is the daughter.

The Hannaher is one of the most prominent of the Irish Cathohc families
in Lyons, and the subject is a man whom it is a delight to meet — clear-headed,
quick-witted, proud of his father's record, as he should be, for he did much
for the people who settled in this community in the early days. He loaned
considerable money, used his influence to bring in capital, and was always gen-
erous and public-spirited. Mr. Hannaher's father was the man who did great
things for the Catholic church, furnishing half the money for a fifty-thousand
dollar building, often furnishing a check for five hundred dollars when things
looked bad. Mrs. Hannaher has also done the same thing.

GEORGE V. HAYES.

There is a class of most useful and enterprising business men in America
who have lived on farms until long past maturity, then moving to some
town or city have entered into business. Their training in the economy and
good management required in successful' farming has fitted them to compete
in the business world with others, and to wrest successfully compensation
for their work. Such has been the case with this man, who farmed until
nearly forty years old and then came to a small town and started in business,
and has found his efforts crowned with prosperity.

George V. Hayes was born in Clinton county, Iowa, October 18, 1859,
a son of Jonathan and Margaret (Johnson) Hayes. His father was born
in New York in 1812, his mother in Norway in 1841. Jonathan came to
Clinton county, Iowa, in 1846, and settled on a farm of forty acres and
added until he had two hundred forty acres at his death. In politics he was
a Democrat. He was a member of the Christian church and his wife of the
Lutheran. Six of their eight children are surviving. Jonathan Hayes died
in 1893; his widow is living.

George V. Hayes spent his early days on the farm and attended the

GEORGE V. HAYES

.S^ 111

r-'(V

\-lD

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 785

public schools. He began when a young man to farm for himself, and now
owns two hundred thirty-two acres of land. In 1898 he moved to Calamus
and engaged in the agricultural implement and hardware business. He
was one of the organizers of the Farmers' Savings Bank and has been its
president for three vears. He is also interested in the undertaking and fur-
niture establishment at Calamus, operated in the name of Hayes & Blake.
In politics he is a Republican and has held the office of township clerk and
has been a meml)er of the Calamus council. He is a memljer of the Odd
Fellows and of the Modern Woodmen, also of the American Patriots.

Mr. Haves was regarded as one of the best farmers in the township when
engaged in that business, and has since proved his capabilities in the business
line. He is much esteemed and respected in the community.

HENRY ASHPOLE.

Hampshire township. Clinton county, boasts of many successful farmers
and of many well-kept farms, but of no more successful farmer than the gen-
tleman whose name heads this re\iew. and of no farm of more prosperous
appearance than the one of which he is the proprietor. He has applied busi-
ness methods to farming and has made it very profitable to himself.

Henry Ashpole was born in Ashtabula county, Ohio, in the town of
Saybrook, on Xovember 28, 1854, the son of John Ashpole, who was born
in Lincolnshire, England, June i, 1815, and Jane (Broughton) Ashpole, who
was born at Huntington, Lincolnshire, England, in 1819.

John Ashpole was a farmer by occupation and emigrated to Indiana in
1845. Remaining there for only a short time, he moved to Ohio in 1848, and
in 1850 came farther west to Clinton county, Iowa. Locating at Clinton, he
and John Morris started the first lime kiln in the city. Soon after he sold this
and liought forty acres of tlie Morris seed farm in Lincoln township, which he
later sold and rented land. Xext he bought eighty acres, on which he lived
until he became an old man, when he retired and moved to Clinton, where he
died on June 13, 1897. fie was a man of strong character and well liked by
those who knew him.

Jane Broughton had married a Mr. Fisher before becoming the wife of
Mr. Ashpole, and had by him one son, William Fisher. She bore to Mr.
Ashpole four children, Frederick. John. Betsy Ann, now Mrs. Cooper, and
Hemw.

' (50)

-86 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Henry Ashpole was the youngest of the family. He attended the Hamp-
sliire townslii]) schools and remained on his father's farm until one year after
his marriage. For three years he rented of his father, then for about the
same time he rented of Mr. Conner. Tn 1882 he bought ninety acres in Hamp-
shire townshijx on which he now resides, to which after one year he added
fort}' acres more, and three years later forty more, making one hundred and
seventy acres in all. He has erected all the buildings on the farm, a comfort-
able house and large barns, and has improved the fertility of his soil. For
manv years he fed each year a large number of cattle.

Tn local politics ^Ir. Ashpole acts independently of party lines, but since
Cleveland's second administration he has ^•oted with the Republicans on
national matters. The voters of his township have chosen him as a member
of the school board and as township trustee. Fraternally, he is a member of
the Modern Woodmen of America.

On February 8, 1877, Henry Ashpole was married to Frances Hughes,
who w^as born at Sterling. Illinois, on September 6, 1854. the daughter of
James B. Hughes, an early, settler and farmer. She has been an excellent
wife and has borne to him the following children : IMrs. Esther Jane Barker,
Frederick Eugene, Martha, Bess, John B., Frank, Grace, Thomas, Lillie,
Roland, James (deceased at the age of eighteen months). Russell and Ralph.
Mr. Ashpole has a family of which any man might well be proud. He is a
man highly respected locally for his many good qualities, has hosts of friends,
and has proved himself one of the best financial managers to be found among
the farmers of his county. Mrs. Ashpole and daughters. Lillie and Martha,
belong to the Methodist church.

GEORGE MORRIS.

In looking over the list of leading farmers and representative citizens of
Lincoln township. Clinton county, one soon encounters the name of George
Morris, who has so directed his energies as to entitle him to such recognition
and who is a man of many strong characteristics. He was born in the city
of Clinton, this county, on July 2. i860, and he is the son of John and Mary
(Bigastaff) Morris, both born in England, the father on October 31, 1832,
and the mother on March 14, 1831. John Morris was primarily a cattle raiser.
He came with his wife to America in 1856 and located in Clinton, Iowa, and
lived there fourteen years. He then moved to Lincoln township and spent

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 787

about ten years on a farm, after which he returned to CHnton, where he Hved
until his death, in September. 1897. His widow survived him many years,
dying in July, 19 10. John Morris was a very successful business man and
accumulated quite a competency. He bought and sold real estate at times,
and at one time he was the owner of fifteen hundred acres of land in Lincoln
township, and he often owned as many as four hundred head of cattle at one
time, which he fed, being known as one of the leading feeders in the county
for some time. He carried on farming on an extensive scale, too. He had a
genius for agriculture and was a man whom to know was to admire and
esteem. He was a loyal Republican, and while often solicited by his friends
to run for office, he would not do so. preferring" to devote his time exclusively
to his large affairs. He was prominent here in the early days and did much
toward the general uplDuilding of the locality. One daughter, Annie, is living
in Clinton, being one of the first children born there.

Georsre Morris of this review was educated in the schools of Clinton and
he attended the Lyons River Institute for a period of two years, and later
attended school for the same length of time at Faribault, Minnesota, a mili-
tary school. Thus he became well educated and after leaving college he
traveled in Europe for two years. Then his father gave him his present
farm of one hundred and twenty-two acres and he has lived on the same ever
since. He was tw^enty-two years of age when he took possession of this place
and he has proved himself to be an agriculturist of no mean ability. Besides
general farming, he feeds a large number of cattle each year. He has kept
his place well improved and he always keeps good live stock, being an admirer
of good horses and some splendid specimens are to be seen about his place.
He has a beautiful and well-kept home and large and convenient barns and
outbuildings. He is one of the largest land owners in Lincoln township.
He spends his time overseeing his large interests, but does no regular w-ork
himself. He has his affairs under a splendid system and has been very suc-
cessful in his management. He is a worthy son of a worthy sire and delights
to recall the early experiences of his honored father, who came from Leister-
shire. England. When six years of age he began working, his duties being
to keep the crows and other birds from the grain, and when only nine years of
age he could support himself. He was a fine example of the truly self-made
man, and after coming to America he became ver)- prosperous by judicious
cattle raising. In politics the subject is a Democrat, but he does not aspire
to public offices. He is a meml^er of the Methodist church and an officer in
the same.

Mr. Morris was married on November 21, 1889, to Anna Hayes, a lady

788 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

of culture and refinement and the representative of an excellent family. She
was born in England on October 12. 1865, and she is the daughter of Robert
and Mary Haves. This union has resulted in the l)irth of five children, name-
ly : Anna Mary. Frances Elizabeth, John Robert, George Eustice and William
Arthur.

ROBERT BRUCE KELLY.

Holding worthy prestige among the young and enterprising farmers of
Lincoln township, Clinton county, Iowa, is Robert Bruce Kelly, a very worthy
representative of one of the best known and highly honored families in this
section of tlie county, whose reputation for probity and industry he has ever
sought to bear aloft.

Mr. Kellv is a native of the township where he now resides, his birth hav-
ing occurred here on September 11, 1881. and he is the son of Robert Kelly,
Sr., who was born in Pennsylvania in 1841. and who married Kathleen Dill-
hammer, who was also born in the old Keystone state, in 1848. The paternal
grandfather, Adam Kelly, was among the pioneers who came to Center town-
ship. Clinton county, Iowa, in 1853 and took up government land. At that
time Robert Kelly. Sr.. was twelve years of age, and he grew up on the home
place, assisting his father to overcome the difficulties incident to the life of all
first settlers. When twenty-four years of age he bought a farm of his own
and devoted his life to agricultural pursuits, becoming well fixed, and at the
time of his death, in 190 = , he was the owner of four hundred and twelve acres
in Lincoln township, his farm being one of the best improved and most
desirable in the community, .\lthorgh he carried on general farming on an
extensive scale, he was mainly a stock man. spending the major part of his
time feeding cattle for the market, making most of his ample competencv in
this manner. He Ijecamc widely known in the eastern part of this county as
a stock man and he had the respect and confidence of all who kneW' him. He
was a member of the Presbyterian church. His family consisted of the fol-
lowing children, given in order of birth: David Eldrid. who is now living
retired near Clinton: Samuel B. lives at Brooking, South Dakota; Richard is
deceased: Albert Burke, of France. Iowa; Robert Bruce, of this review: Lee
C. is li\-ing on the home farm.

Robert P). Kelly, of this sketch, received his education in the public
schools of Hampshire township, also spent four terms at Dixon College,
where he applied himself very carefully to his textbooks and made a splendid

■^^Sp p^^-

ROBERT KELLY

msk:

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 789

record. After leaving college he returned to his father's fann and when
only eighteen years of age he began renting land of his father, continuing in
this manner for four years. Then he went to western Iowa, locating near
Laporte City, where he rented a farm. Upon tlie death of his father in 1905
he returned to Clinton county and received his share of the estate. In Febru-
ary. 1909, he built a large, attractive, substantial and modern dwelling and
convenient and well equipped barns, all down the road west of the old home-
stead, and here he is making his home, being exceptionally well fixed for a
young man, and he has brought his place up to a high grade of improvement
in e\'ery respect. He calls the place "Fair View," which name is veiy apro-
pos, as all who haye seen this veiy desirable and well-kept farm well know.
It is the yery best of Iowa soil and the buildings are new and tastily arranged.
Mr. Kelly is a member of the First Presbyterian church of Clinton.

On March 2, 1904, Mr. Kelly was married to Pearl Hazel Pierson, who
was born February 9, 1886, in this county, a lady of such estimable traits of
character that she has always been popular with a wide circle of friends; she
is the daughter of Elwood and Sadie Pierson. Her father was born in Ohio,
coming to Chnton, Iowa, later in life, where he worked as switchman in the
Northwestern yards. For further facts concerning the early history of the
Kelly family the reader is directed to the sketch of Samuel H. Kelly, of Elvira,
Iowa, appearing on another page of this work.

I. \\'ARD POTTER.

One of the successful young business men of Clinton, Iowa, who has
forged to the front in spite of obstacles and has ]:)ersisted along legitimate lines
until he is being abundantly rewarded is J. Ward Potter, the well known
dealer in wood and coal. He was born in Clinton on Januar^• i. 1887, and
has spent his life at home, knowing that it would not be worth while to seek
a better place for business opportunities. He is the son of .\rthur R. and
Mary E. (Tate) Potter, the former born in Canada in 1854 and died in April,
1910, and the latter was born in Galesburg. Illinois, in 1858. The father came
to Clinton when a young man and engaged in the teaming business, first for
Mart Lily and later for himself. He finally acquired the Chancy Coal Com-
pany and conducted a general coal, wood and coke business from about 1898
continuously up to the time of his death. He became well and favorably
known in Clinton and in 1896 and 1897 he was street commissioner of Clinton.

790 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

He was a Republican and belonged to the First Methodist Episcopal church,
being a member of the official board of that church. He belonged to the
Modern Woodmen of America, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and
the American Patriots and Mystic Workers. He was ill for a year and a
half before his death, Imt bore his sufferings with rare courage and fortitude,
for he was a man of many strong characteristics and had numerous friends
wherever he was known.

Two sons and two daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. Arthur R. Pot-
ter, namely: Carrie R.. Harriet B.. Harrison H.. and J. Ward, who was the
third in order of birth.

J. Ward Potter received a good education in the Clinton schools, and
after lea\-ing the school room he \\ent to work for his father in the coal and
wood business and teaming. In due course of time he became general fore-
man of the outside work, and upon the death of his father he took charge of
the entire business, which he is still conducting in an able and successful man-
ner. He does a general teaming business in connection with his coal and
wood establishment, and enjoys a very liberal and rapidly growing patronage.
He hauls all the scenery and baggage for the shows given at the Clinton
theater, and he also does a big teaming business for the large contracting
companies. He is an energetic, pleasant, happy-faced young man who makes
friends readily and has the good will of all who know him. He is a member
of the Modern Woodmen of America.

Mr. Potter was married November 9, 1910. to Emma Seebold. of
Winona, Minnesota.

ENGVER N. CLAUSEN.

Though young in years, Engver X. Clausen, a well known grocer of
Clinton. Iowa, has won definite success and shown what a man with lofty
])rinciples, honesty of purpose and determination can do by making a per-
sistent effort, and because of his industry, integrity and courtesy he is a man
to whom the future holds much of promise and rew-ard.

Mr. Clausen was born January 7, 1882, in Lyons, a suburb of Clinton,
Iowa. He is the son of Peter. C. Clausen, who was born in Germany, where
he was reared, educated and where he married, the date of his birth being
1853. In i88t he brought his Aoung wife to America and came direct to
Lyons, Iowa, settling on a farm west of this cit\' \\here he remained for one
vear, then moved into the town of Lvons. He was a miller bv trade and he

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 79I

also worked in a sawmill for fifteen years. He has been conducting a harness
shop for the past two years and has a very good trade. He has always been
a hard working man and does his work conscientiously. He is a German
Lutheran, as are all the members of this family. To Mr. and Mrs. Peter C.
Clausen the following children were born: Mrs. Hannah Boettger. George,
Engver N. and Carl C.

Engver X. Clausen enjoyed the advantages of a good education in the
public schools of Clinton, and. after he had finished, he learned the car-
penter's trade and worked at the same successfully for four years, but not
being entirely satisfied with this line of endeavor he sought to enter the mer-
cantile field and for a period of five }"ears worked in the hardware department
of the Clinton Saddlery Company. In July. 1909, he and his brother. Carl
C, bought out the grocery store of Al. K. Madden at No. 716 Main street,
Lyons, and they have since that time enjoyed a very satisfactory and prosper-
ous trade, always carrying a complete line of staple and fancy groceries in
their neat, well arranged store and their trade is rapidly growing.

Mr. Clausen is a member of the Highland Nobles, the German Workers'
lodge, and he is <|uartermaster sergeant of Company H, Fifty-third Towa Na-
tional Guard, and is greatly interested in this work.

^Ir. Clausen was married on September 9, 1903, to Wilhelmina Petersen,
who was born May 20, 1885, in Clinton, Iowa. She was the daughter of
Julius Petersen, who came to Iowa from Germany when a boy, and Mrs.
Clausen is the granddaughter of William Byers, who was a furniture maker
and came to Clinton in 1872. Mrs. Clausen was born on the same ground
where she and her husljand now have their dwelling at No. 403 Third avenue,
Clinton. They are the parents of two children, namely: Jeanette, born
March 6, 1905. and Bernerdine, who was born [May 28. 1908.

Carl C. Clausen, brother and partner in business with Engver N. Clausen,
was born September 8. 1893. at Lyons, Iowa. He attended school in Lvons,
but left school early in life to work in the grocery store of Fredericks & Ouin,
as clerk, where he remained three years, then clerked for M. K. Madden for
one year and finally, in partnership with his brother. Engver, he purchased
Maddetfs store. Although very young in years, Carl C. Clausen has a level
head and having had excellent training from a small bov in the local grocery
stores he is well equipped for his present work. He floes the buying for the
firm and is an alert, careful and conscientious young man to whom the future
holds much of promise in the way of business success. He is verv pleasant
and genial to customers and he has a host of friends here and in Lyons.

ti .. ' ^ ■ .:■:..

792 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

HENRY C. GRIEBEL.

It has been many years since the family of Henry C. Griebel, an agri-
culturist, now living on one of the best farms in Orange township, Clinton
county, crossed the vast ocean from Germany, his native countiT, and sought
the shores of the New World. They had heard of the opportunities opening
up in the newer western states and, desiring to benefit themselves and their
descendants, determined to seek new fields and surround themselves with
new and be'tter conditions. They possessed all the thrift usually ascribed
to the Germanic race, and ere many harvest moons had waxed and waned
they found themselves in good financial' condition, — in fact, prosperous land
owners and agriculturists.

Mr. Griebel was born in Germany on July 19, 1864, grew to boyhood
there and spent one and one-half years in school there. It was in 1870 that
he accompanied his parents to America and located in Clinton county. Iowa,
where he continued his education in the public schools. He is the son of
Fritz Griebel. who was l">orn in Germanx in 1840, the son of Henry and
Lottie Griebel, both natives of the fatherland, also. They grew to maturity
in their native land, were educated and married there, and he brought his
family to America in 1870, locating in Clinton county, where his death
occurred in 1884, his widow surviving until 1903. Five children were born
to them, of whom three are still li\ing. He was a farmer, and he and his
family were members of the Lutheran church. Fritz Griebel was educated
in Germany and he accompanied the family to America in 1870. and has
devoted his life to farming. He became the owner of a valuable farm, con-
sisting of four hundred a-nd fifty acres of land, having begun with eighty
acres.. In 1898 he came to Grand Mound and has since lived retired. In
politics he is a Democrat and he and his family are members of the Lutheran
church. He was married in 1868 to Henrietta Schmidt and they became the
parents of six children: Henry C, the immediate subject of this sketch:
William. Gustave, Hermon, .\dolph and Mary. The mother of these chil-
dren died in 1904, and in igo8 he married Mrs. Anna Frega, a native of
Germany.

Henry C. Griebel learned the carpenter's trade in his youth and followed
that trade until he married, and he has since devoted his time to farming.
He has met with a large measure of .success, having been a hard worker and
a good manager, and he is now the owner of one of the best and richest farms
of the township, consisting of three hundred and twenty acres. He has
kept his place well improved and has modern farming machinerv and good

HENRY C. GRIEBEL AND FAMILY

^ ^E MFW 7r-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 793

outbuildings for his grain and stock, and a \er\- snl)stantial and comfortable
dwelling. He has always kept some good grades of live stock of various
kinds and it is a pleasure to look over his well-kept i)lace.

In politics Mr. Griebel is a Repubhcan and he has long taken much
interest in local afifairs, having been school director for about twelve years.
He is a director in the German Mutual Fire Insurance Company, a stock-
holder in the Farmers' Savings Bank at Calamus, and is one of the sub-
stantial and prosperous men of the township, richly deserving the large
success that has attended his efforts, owing to the fact that he has worked
long and hard along legitimate lines and that he started with practically
nothing when he began life for himself.

Mr. Griebel was married on March 6, 1885, to Lena Schwiem, who was
born in Clinton county, Iowa, and who is the daughter of Henry and Anna
Schwien, who came to Scott county, Iowa, in 1856 and located in Clinton
countv in 1870. Both are now deceased. To Mr. and Mrs. Griebel five
children have been born, namely: Alma. Hugo, Rudolph, Freddie and
Anna. Mr. Griebel knows how to enjoy the comforts of life. He not only
owns good horses and buggies, but also, being up to date, owns a fine auto-
mobile.

FRANK L. McCarthy.

A man of marked business enterprise and capability who carries forward
to successful completion whatever he undertakes is Frank L. McCarthy, one
of the popular grocers of Clinton, Iowa. He has long been an important
factor in business circles and his po])ularity is well deserved, as in him are
embraced the characteristics of an unabating energy, unbending integrity and
industry that never flags.

Mr. McCarthy was hnvn in Clinton, Iowa, February 11, 1889, and has
spent his life in his home city. He is the son of Patrick H. McCarthy, who
was born in 1853 ^^ Rochester. New York, and died in igo'8. The paternal
grandfather. John McCarthy, was a \ery early settler of Clinton, having come
here in 1856. He was a contractor and was prominent in the early business
life of this citv. Patrick H. McCarthv came to Clinton with his father when
he was a baby and here he grew to maturity and was educated in the early
schools. When he grew to maturity he became a grocer, in 1888. owning a
store at the corner of Ninth avenue and Fourth street, and there he worked
up an excellent trade and became fairly well-to-do, continuing in this line of

794 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

endeavor until 1908, in which year his death occurred. He was a meml^er
of the Cathohc church, the Knights of Columhus, the Cathohc Foresters and
the Modern Woodmen. He was an honest, energetic man whom his many
customers and friends held in the highest respect.

The family of Patrick McCarthy consisted of seven children, of whom,
Frank L. of this review was the second in order of hirth; the other three sons
and three daughters are. Agnes, a nun at Waterloo, Iowa; Irene; Catherine;
John L., who is now eighteen years old and is associated with his brother, the
subject, in business in Clinton ; Paul is six years old, and Noel is four.

Frank L. McCarthy has enjoyed the advantages of an excellent education,
having attended St. Mary's parochial school at Clinton, Iowa, also the Clinton
high school, from which he was graduated with the class of 1908. During
all his life, when not in school, he had worked in his father's grocery store and
was well informed concerning this line of endeavor and the general business of
such a store when his father died, which e\'ent occurred one month before
Frank L.'s graduation from high school. I^lnis being well prepared in point
of training and education, young McCarthy took up the active management
of the store and has managed it \\'ith Acr}- gratifying results since that time
to the present; however, he soon changed the location of the store to No. 814
South Fourth street and took on a much larger stock, taking his younger
brother in as a partner, and the firm name became F. L. & J. L. McCarthy.
The trade and profits have doubled since the subject took charge of the store
and he has been notably successful for so young a man, and, judging from his
splendid record in the past, the future will doubtless have in store much larger
things for him. His pleasant manners and sunny, Irish disposition, coupled
with his known integrity and desire to please, renders him popular with his
many customers, and he is in e\'ery respect deserving of the large success
that has attended his efforts.

CHARLES C. BINGHAM.

The career of Charles C. Bingham, a well known business man of Clin-
ton, Iowa, clearly illustrates the possibilities that are open in this country to
earnest, persevering men who have the courage of their convictions and are
determined to be the architects of their own fortunes. He was l)om in Jones
county. Iowa. March i, 1874, and is the son of Calvin H. and Mary L. (Joslin)
Bingham, the former born in the state of New York, February 4, 1829, and

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 795

the latter in Michigan October 22. 1837; she is still living, but Mr. Bingham
passed to his reward on November j, 1905. Calvin H. Bingham was a con-
tractor and builder and was noted in this line for his superior ability and his
constant desire to please his patrons. When a young man he came west to
Anamosa, Iowa, and worked there as a wagonmaker for several years, then
for a period of eight years he lived on a fami. In 1894 he moved to Clinton,
Iowa, and began operations as a contractor and builder. He was a veteran of
the Civil war, having been a member of Company F. California Cavalry, and
he ser\-ed very faithfully in the Southwest, principally against the Indians.
Politically, he was a Democrat.

To Mr. and Mrs. Calvin H. Bingham four sons and one daughter were
born, named in order of birth as follows: Ralph E.. Fred \\'.. Charles C. (of
this review). Bertha E. and E. Frank.

Charles C. Bingham began his education in the Jones county public
schools and completed it in the Clinton Business College. As a young man
he worked on his father's farm and learned the carpenter's trade, also. Finally
he began clerking in the drug store of J. W. Evans, with whom he remained
for seven and one-half years on South Fourth street, Clinton. On January
I. 1910. he started a grocery store at No. 534 South Sixth street, Lyons, Iowa,
where he built up an excellent patronage. He disposed of the grocery busi-
ness February i. 1911. since which time he has been associated with the drug
firm of John J. Blodt & Company of Clinton.

Mr. Bingham is a Blue Lodge Mason and he is a member of the ?\Iacca-
bees. He was married on June 3. 1908, to Emma Belle Scott, who was born
in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of William H. and ^Mary Scott. Her father is
an electrician on the Chicago & Xorthwestern electric lighted train. To ^Ir.
and ]\rrs. Bingham one child has 1)een lx)rn. named Scott Calvin, whose birth
occurred January 12. 1909.

TOHN W. SMITH.

Perhaps no resident of Center township is better or more favorably
known than the enterprising young farmer and representative citizen whose life
story is briefly told in the following lines. The family of which he is an hon-
ored representative is of English origin and has not been known so xevy long
in America, but no better citizens have come to Clinton county from foreign
shores than thev.

796 ' CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

John W. Smith was born in Berhn township, Chnton county, on January
25, 1870, and he is the son of John and Mary (Martin) Smith and the grand-
son of David and Rebecca (Wilhs) Smith, natives of Lincohishire, England,
in which country they spent their hves and where they were hving when sum-
moned to take up their abode in the mystic beyond. John was the eldest of a
family of three children, and his birth occurred in Lincolnshire, England,
November 30, 1829. In the year 1852 he emigrated to America, soon after-
wards coming west and locating at Sabula, Iowa, where he found employ-
ment with the Northwestern railroad, later working for the Illinois Central.
He worked at different occupations and at different places until 1863, when he
came to Clinton county and settled on one hundred and sixty acres of land in
section 12, Berlin township, which he had purchased from the government and
where he continued to reside until he removed to De Witt where he purchased
a good property and where he has continued to reside, living retired. He put
extensive improvements on his farm, and by econoni}- and energy together
with the active co-operation of his good helpmeet he has been enabled to add
to his original purchase until at the present time he is the proprietor of four-
teen hundred and forty-tw'O acres of good tillable land in Clinton county. The
parents of the subject were married in Bloomfield township. Clinton county,
March 20. 1867. The mother was born in Pennsylvania May 18. 1840. To
their union five children were born. z\lbert, John W.. Willard. Lizzie (now
Mrs. Henry Schmidt) and Robert.

John W. Smith received a good common school education and remained
on the home farm w ith his parents until 1898. On January 28, 1902. he was
married to Emma Levisen, daughter of Christian and Minnie ( Clasan ) Levi-
sen. Mrs. Smith's father was born in Schleswig, Germany. April 25. 1840.
He emigrated from Liverpool. England, with his parents. Lawrence and Anna
Cathrina (Sebbance) Levisen. in 1852. and located in Clinton county, Iowa,
near Bryant, at which place the grandparents died, the death of the grand-
father occurring on September 2, 1882. and that of the grandmother on March
9. 1890. Mrs. Smith's parents were married on Januarv 7. 1863. Her
mother was born on No\-ember 26. 1843. Mrs. Smith's parents, having re-
tired from the farm, now reside at De Witt. Both are members of the Ger-
man Lutheran church, and politically Mr. Levisen is a Democrat. They were
the parents of seven children, one of whom. Anna, is deceased ; those living
are. Lawrence; Dora L.. widow of Heniy Christiansen, deceased; Charlie F. ;
Anna C. w'lie of Burns Murphy; Emma AI.. wife of John \\'. Smith; and
William C.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith 1:!egan their married life on their jiresent farm of

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 797

two Inindred vnd tliirtx' acres, which is located just west of Elvira. Center
townshij). He has brought this place up to a high state of improvement and
carries on general farming and stock raising in a manner that stamps him as
being fully abreast of the times. He has always worked hard and managed
well and he has a very convenient and cozy dwelling and substantial out-
buildings He keeps a good grade of live stock and his place is one of the
most desirable in the community.

Mr. Smith takes an abiding interest in all public matters and in politics
he is a Democrat and is acti\e in party work. He at present is one of the
trustees of his township. His wife is a member of the English Lutheran
church, of which ]\Ir. Smith is an attendant and liberal contributor. They are
the parents of three children, Wesley, born April i, 1903 ; Marie, born Novem-
ber 19. 1904. and Robert, born April 30. 1910.

CARL lORGEXSEX.

The gentleman whose name forms the caption of this review is a factor
of no small importance in the business life of Lyons. Iowa, his record as a
straightforward merchant and upright citizen entitling him to an honored
place in the life of the community. He is a young man. has had the ad-
vantages of a present-day education, and his trained brain and industrious
habits are bringing him success and the esteem of his fellow men.

Carl Jorgensen is a native of Clinton, Iowa, ha\ing been born nn July 24.
1884. He is the son of Louis and >\Iary (Yuhl) Jorgensen. l)Oth born in
Denmark, the father on Fel)ruary 9, 1858. They are both still living. They
were married in the old country, where they were educated and grew to ma-
turitv anfl s])ent their early life. They emigrated to America and located in
Clinton, Iowa, where they became \ery comfortably established. Louis
Jorgensen conducted a general feed and flour mill in Clinton with a large de-
gree of success, until 1907, when he retired. He is a member of the Danish
Lutheran church. His family consists of one son. Carl, of this re^'iew, and
two daughters, Evira and Mrs. Minnie Nissen.

Carl Jorgensen was educated in the public schools of Clinton, and after
leaving the school room he worked in a printing office for two years, but not
taking any too kindly to this line of endeavor he turned his attention to
merchandising, and first clerked in the groceries of Hans Peper and M. A.
Nissen, respectively, and thereby accjuired a complete knowledge of this line

798 ' CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

of work, which has stood him in good stead in his subsequent hfe. Saving
his money and leaving nothing neglected whereby he could advance his knowl-
edge of the business, he was enabled in 1908 to purchase the grocery of F. W.
Damour. taking up the store and trade where the former left off, and he has
continued the same with very satisfactory results, building up the stock and
increasing the patronage of the store until he is now one of the busiest grocers
in the city. He conducts a general grocery, flour and feed store on South
Sixth street, Lyons. His place is managed under an excellent system and
general satisfaction is given, at all times, to his many customers, for here they
know they get a square deal, which has ever been Mr. Jorgensen's watchword.

Mr. Jorgensen was married on September 11, 1908, to Agnes John, who
w-as born in Clinton, Iowa, February 14, 1888. the daughter of Henr}^ and
Catherine John, natives of Germany and a highly respected family.

Mr. Jorgensen is a member of the Danish society, also the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America and the Woodmen
of the World, and he stands high in all of these worthy organizations.

RICHARD J. GIBSON.

Richard J. Gibson, well known citizen of Center township, Clinton county,
is one who, endow^ed by nature with the qualities w^hich insure success, has
made good use of his natural advantages. Perhaps there is no career which
excites more interest than that of the farmer lad. Strong, healthy in mind
and body, filled with ambition, he starts out with full assurance that he can
achieve his ideals, and, as the history of our broad land has shown, often,
indeed, his hopes are realized and he is crowned with success in the field of his
chosen endeavor. Such a youth was the one w' e review. Commencing his
life work with his father's farm, he there learned all the varied departments of
an agriculturist's work, and then in early manhood, alone and practically un-
aided, he started upon his own account to make his way in the world, with
what success it is the purpose of this narrative to show.

Mr. Gibson was born on February 10, 1844, i^i Butler county, Pennsyl-
vania, and he is the scion of a sterling old family of the Keystone state, being
the son of William R. and Martha (McChesney) Gibson. These parents
grew to maturity, w^ere educated and married in the East, and in 1852 they
came to the rapidly developing Middle West, locating in Jackson county. Iowa,
bringing their family of six children, whose names are given as follows:

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 799

Robert M., Thomas J.. Josiah H.. Joseph L.. Richard J. (of this review),
WiUiam R. (deceased), and Samuel AI. (deceased). The father purchased
land in Jackson county, near Andrew, where he and his wife spent the re-
maining years of their lives, engaged in farming and stock raising. Robert,
William and Samuel Gibson all served in the Civil war. The father, William
R. Gibson, was a Republican in politics and he and his wife were members of
the United Presbyterian church. They were highly respected people and well
known among the early settlers.

Richard J. Gibson, of this sketch, received a common school education
and grew to maturity on the home farm, which he worked when a boy, assist-
ing in the development of the same from the wilderness and with the general
crops during the summer months, attending the neighboring schools in the
wintertime. On October lo, 1872, he married Malissa Hamilton, daughter
of George and Rebecca (Strain) Hamilton, of Jackson county, Iowa, who
were natives of Pennsylvania, from which state they came to Jackson county,
Iowa, in 1855, being among the early and best known settlers of the county.
Thev were the parents of ten children, seven sons and three daughters. Mr.
Gibson began his married life on his farm of eighty acres in Center township,
which he sold in 1881 and in 1886 purchased five hundred acres just west of
Elvira. He was successful from the first and as he prospered he farmed on a
larger scale. His present fine farm consists of four hundred and sixty acres,
which he has placed under modern and high class improvements in every
respect, it being considered one of the best kept and most desirable farms in
the county. It is thoroughly drained with tile. He has a large, attractive and
comfortable dwelling and a convenient and substantial group of outbuildings.
His large, well kept, shady, shrub-covered lawn is beautiful to the passerby,
and everything about his place indicates taste, thrift and excellent manage-
ment, in fact, this is a model farm. Mr. Gibson buys, raises and feeds much
stock, keeping the best grades of all kinds, and he grazes large herds of cattle
each year. No small part of his annual income is derived from live stock.

The United Presbyterian church has the support and holds the member-
ship of Mr. Gibson and his family. In politics he is a Republican, and he is
well read on current topics, having become a well informed man on political
and civic topics and the world's best literature. He has never sought political
office, preferring to devote his attention exclusively to his individual affairs.

Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gibson. William B.,
Florence L. and Myra M., all living at home. They are well educated; the
son, William B., took a commercial course at Clinton and Florence attended
college at Monmouth, Illinois.

337560B

800 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

GIDEON ALONZO RUSSELL.

This veneral)le and highly honored citizen of Lyons, Clinton county,
is eminently entitled to conspicuous mention in this history, owing to the
fact that he is a pioneer of this section, having seen and participated in the
development of the same from the early days. The life he has led is one of
commendation and worthy of emulation by younger generations, for it has
been led along lines of usefulness and integrity. He is an interesting talker
on the early conditions here and of the subsequent development of the county.
He has been successful in the various lines of endea^'or to which he has ad-
dressed himself and is worthy of the universal esteem in which he is held.

Mr. Russell hail's from the old Empire state and is a scion of a sterling
family of the same, his birth having occurred in Otsego county. New York,
January 25. 1828. He is the son of Gideon H. and Waitstill (Pierce) Rus-
sell. His father was born in the state of New York and there he grew to
maturity, was educated in the old-time schools and married, — in fact, spent
his life there engaged in agricultural pursuits, and he and his wife died in
that state.

Gideon A. Russell was reared on the home farm, where he assisted
with the general work about the place during his boyhood days, and when a
young man he learned the carpenter's trade, and when twenty-six years old,
in 1854, he came to Clinton county, Iowa, settling at Lyons, and established
a sash and door shop, which he maintained for a period of thirty-five years
and was very successful, enjoying an excellent and ever increasing business.
He turned out a \'ery fine grade of work and was very careful to please his
patrons in every respect, alw^ays honest and obhging in his dealings. In 1.861
he built and established a factory for making sashes and doors, also dressing
lumber, his place of business being next to the present public square of Lyons.

In 1889 Mr. Russell began dealing in farm loans and real estate business,
and in a small way he continues the same at present. He has been successful
in this line of Endeavor and now in the declining years of his life he finds
himself very comfortably situated in his cozy home at No. 300 South Fifth
street, Lyons. Politically, he is independent, and while he lias always taken
more than a passing interest in political and ])ul;ric affairs, he has not been
an office-seeker.

Mr. Russell was married on March 16. 1854, to Mary Pier, of Otsego
county. New York, who was born January 5, 1838. To this union five chil-
dren were born, namely: George E.. who died in 1874; Alice, who died in
1860: Ada. who died in 1870; Fannie J., the wife of .Alonzo Firman, of

GIDEON A. RUSSELL

1- .

AS o

:;y !

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 8oi

Lvons ; l-red A., whu is a well-known author and li\es in Xew York. The
mother of these chihh'en passed to her rest on November 14, 1871. and ^Ir.
Russell' was married on January 21, 1874. to Emaline Kellogg, of Otsego
county. Xew York. To the last union two children were l)urn, Lynn" K.,
of Clinton, Iowa, and Gertrude, wife of Frank Albam, li\ing in Alarshall-
town, Iowa.

LOUIS J. BORMANN.

One of the suljstantial citizens of Lyons, Iowa, is the gentleman to a
review of whose life work the attention of the reader is now called, Louis
J. Bormann, well known grocer, who, though a young man. has forged ahead
and is winning the confidence and esteem of those with whom he has dealings.
W'liile advancing his own interests, he does not lose sight of the fact that it
is his duty to lend his influence in furthering the interests of his communit}'.

Mr. Bormann was Ijorn in L}'ons, Clinton county, December 9, i'887.
He is the son of Jacob Bormann, who was born in Germany, on the banks of
"the lovely castled Rhine river." He was a stock Ijuyer by occupation and he
spent most of his life in America, having come to our shores with his parents
when twelve years of age. They located on a farm near Sugar Creek, Iowa,
where Jacob was reared, educated and where he Axorked on the home place.
A\'hen he reached man's estate he moved to Lyons, Iowa, and started a grocery
store in the Hannaher block.. He met with success, but finallv sold out and
became a grain and stock l)U}er and did an extensive business in this direction.
He served three years as a soldier in the Ci\il war, being a member of Com-
pany K, Twenty-sixth Iowa \^olunteer Infantry, and he was wounded four
times, but recovered. He saw some hard ser\ice and was in manv great bat-
tles, being also with Sherman on his march to the sea. He was a German
Catholic in religious matters. His death occurred when his son, Louis J., was
a small lad.

Louis J. Borman has three brothers and two sisters, namelv : AI. B. lives
in Clinton; John J. is a traveling salesman; Frank J. is railroading; Airs.
Christina Schoenfeller ; Airs. Lena AI. Anderson.

The subject was educated in St. Bonica's parochial school at Lvons. and
after leaving the school room to l^egin life for himself he started out as a
clerk in C. H. Wulf's retail grocery store in Lyons, remaining there three
years. He then spent (jne year in a dry goods store and one and one-half
years in a tea and coffee store as clerk. All the while he was laving u]) a

(51)

802 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

valuable store of information for subsequent use in tbe mercantile world. He
and bis brotber Jobn J. opened a grocery store in Lyons under tbe firm name
of Bormann Brotbers. Tbey continued in business only a sbort time, wben
tbev sold out and Louis J. went to Wyoming and Montana, wdiere be re-
mained one year, principally to ascertain wbether be liked tbe business and
otber conditions tbere. Believing tbat be could succeed better in bis borne
countrv, be returned to Lyons in tbe spring of 1907 and opened a grocery
store in this town, in partnership witb bis brotber, F. J. He bought out the
latter in 1908 and since tbat time has conducted tbe business alone and is
enjoying a very liberal patronage .wdiicb is constantly increasing. He keeps a
neat and up-to-date stock and is known as a young man whose word can
be relied upon and whose good intentions cannot be cjuestioned. He is a
genial and progressive gentleman whom customers like to patronize because of
bis integrity and pleasant manners. He is a member of the Catholic church
and of the Woodmen of the World.

Mr. Bormann was married on June 14, 1910, to Emma M. Galbraith,
who was born in Clinton county, Iowa, tbe daughter of Henry H. Galbraith,
a well established farmer of this countv.

EDWARD JOSEPH HALE.

Among tbe citizens of Clinton, Iowa, whose lives have been led along
such worthv lines of endea\'or tbat they have endeared themselves to their
fellow citizens, thereby being eligible for representation in a volume of this
nature, is tbe gentleman whose name appears above, a man who has worked
bard for what he has achieved and who is eminently deserving of tbe large
success that he has achieved.

Edward Joseph Hale, well known grocer of this city, was born in Port-
land, Connecticut, October 15, 1867, being of a most excellent family of the
old Nutmeg state. Lie is the son of Joseph and Rosella (Edwards) Hale, tbe
former born in Connecticut, in May, 1844, of good Yankee blood, and the
mother was Ijorn in the same state in June, 1848, also of a sterling New Eng-
land family. Joseph Hale owned a small farm and raised tobacco and in 1874
he emigrated with his family to Cedar county, Iowa, where he bought a farm
and managed it until 1885, when he moved to Clinton, this county, and was
engaged in gardening for the city markets until 1885. wben be entered the
grocery business at No. 548 Second avenue, remaining in business until June,

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA, 803

1910, when he sold out and prepared to move to Washington and retire from
active life. He has worked hard and managed well and therefore he has an
ample competency for his declining years.

Two sons were l)()rn to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Hale, Edward J., of this
review, and William Louis, wlio owned a grocery store at Xo. 214 South
Fourth street. Ijut who is now li\ing retired and owns a large ranch in the
West.

Edw^ard J. Hale was educated in the common schools of Cedar county,
Iowa, and there grew to maturity on the home farm. He came to Clinton
with his father in 1885 ^^'""^ f*'^' ^ period of five years assisted him in garden-
ing. He then learned the printer's trade, but not fancying the ''art preserva-
ti\"e"' as a life work, he al)andoned the case and began working as a brakeman
for the Northwestern railroad, being thus employed for a period of five years.
Tiring of the hardships attending the life of a railway trainman, Mr. Hale
finally entered the grocery business at No. 550 Second avenue, Clinton, and
here he has kept a popular, well furnished and well managed store, and has
been very successful, being a man of progressive ideas and honorable and con-
siderate in his dealings v ith the public. His store is patronized by Clinton's
best people.

Politically, Mr. Hale is a Democrat ; he is commander in the ]\Iaccabee
lodge, and is a member of the First Methodist church of Clinton.

Mr. Hale was united in marriage with Mary Huber on June 15, 1893.
She was liorn ^^larch 9, 1870, at Elgin. Illinois, and is the daughter of Charles
and Eva Huber. Her father, who is a tailor by trade, was born in Baden,
Germany, but has spent much of his life in America. Mr. and Mrs. Hale
have one child, Bruce Edward, who was born March 30. 1896. The Hale
family perpetuates the name Edward in eveiy generation.

MATTHEW J. ^lELVIX.

The gentleman to whom the l)iographer now calls the reader's attention
was not favored l)y inherited wealth or the assistance of influential friends,
but in s])ite of this, by perseverance, industry and wise economy, he has at-
tained a comfortable station in life and is well and fa\-oral3ly known in ])usi-
ness. social and other circles of Clinton, as a result of the industrious life he
has lived here and the consistent course he has followed.

]Matthew I. IMehin. a thriftv grocer of this citv, was l)orn in I^elaware

804 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

City, Delaware. Deceml^er 6. 1856. He is the son of Owen and Bridget
(Rogan) Melvin, who were hoth lioni in county Shgo, Ireland, where they
grew to maturity, were educated and where they married young in life, soon
afterwards moving to Scotland where they lived a few years, Mr. Melvin
Avorking as a general laborer. In 1854 they emigrated to America and located
in Delaware City, Delaware, where they were soon the owners of a comfortable
home. During the Civil war, Mr. Melvin assisted in Iniilding a number of
fortifications for the Union, especially in the vicinity of Delaware City and at
Key West, Florida, also other similar work for the United States govern-
ment. In 1863 he and his family moved to Clinton county, Iowa, where he
continued to reside until his death in 1901. His wife is also dead. He was
a stanch and ironclad Democrat in political affairs, and he and his wife were
members of the Roman Catholic church. They were the parents of only two
children. Matthew J. of this review, and a daughter, Catherine, who married
Peter Rimmer, of Clinton, Iowa. This couple died, leaving two children,
Helen, who now lives with Matthew J. Melvin, of this review, and teaches
school ; and Lawrence, who now carries on a transfer business in Clinton.

Matthew J. Melvin received his early education in the common schools
of Clinton county and then attended the Metropolitan College at Chicago,
taking a general business course. Thus well equipped for a business career
and inclining toward a mercantile life, he began clerking in a retail grocery
store in Chicago and there learned the foundations of the mercantile business.
He remained in Chicago eleven years, then came to Clinton, Iowa, and worked
in the Callan groceiy store for sixteen years, gixing entire satisfaction as a
courteous and able clerk, popular with the patrons of the store. In 1907 he
bought out his employer at X^o. 914 South Fourth street, Clinton, and has since
been successfully engaged in the grocery business at this place, ha\'ing one
of the best known and 1)est stocked stores in the city, which is patronized by
the best people in this vicinity.

Mr. Melvin is a Democrat, but has never aspired to oflices of public
trust and emolument. He is a member of the Catholic church and the
Knights of Columbus, also the Catholic Order of Foresters.

Mr. Melvin was married on April 30. 1886. to Mary Rogan, who was
born in Chicago, on May i,-i859, the daughter of William and Sarah Rogan,
natives of Ireland. Mrs. Melvin died on her birthday, when only twenty-nine
years old. She was an estimable character and had hosts of friends. One
child born to this union died when very young.

Mr. ]\Ieh'in is known to the business world here as a man whose integrity
is unassailable and he has the undivided respect of all who know him.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 805

WILLIAM S. RICE.

Among the farmers of Center township, tlie "garden spot of Chnton
conntv." none is more efficient nor l)ears a more respected name than Mr. Rice.
The son of one of the ahlest farmers and most worthy residents of the town-
ship, he has himself in ah respects proved him.self a crecHt to the stock from
wliich he sprnng.

\\^ilham S. Rice was l^orn on March 3. 1865. in Chnton comity, the son
of John F. and Ehza (Hice) Rice, hoth natives of Pennsyh-ania. John F.
Rice was l)orn on September 15, 1*825, his wife on Jnne 7, 1828. They were
married on Febrnary 13, 1851, and emigrated to Chnton county on March 4,
1864. For four years Mr. Rice rented land, then purchased a farm of eighty
acres one-half mile east of Elvira, on which he has lived continuously since
1867. \\dien purchased, the farm was poorly improved, but he has by careful
management and industry improved it and brought his soil up to a higher fer-
tilitv. There is a large maple grove near his residence which he planted from
seed, and which has reached a height of sixty to ninety feet, and this with the
various kinds of fruit and shrubbery surrounding the home give to it the ap-
pearance of a long established homestead, which it is. John F. Rice is enjoying
good health at the age of eighty-five, his wife at eighty-two, a much respected
couple. One of his brothers, Conrad, is living at Elvira, aged ninety-three,
another, \Mlliam F., lives at Clinton, wlfile his sister, Mrs. Mary Fulton, the
remaining member of the family, is li\'ing in the state of Delaware. Mrs.
Rice's parents were natives of Pennsylvania, and had a family of eight chil-
dren, of whom five are li^•ing. Three of her l^'others ser\-ed in the Civil war,
one of whom died from a long confinement in Andersonville prison. Both
Mr. and ]\Irs. Rice are meml^ers of the Lutheran church at Elvira, and are
reckoned among its strongest supporters. They were the ])arents of five
children, all of whom died young of diphtheria, except William S.

W^illiam S. Rice, with tlie exception of two years spent in western
Nebraska, has made his home with his parents, being unmarried, and has
charge of the farm. He is also the owner of a complete threshing outfit, which
he finds a profitable investment. Active in all public enterprises, he is one of
the well known and respected young men of his county, and has served as
school director and secretary of the school board for some years. In 1890
and 1900 he took the census of his township for the government. Mr. Rice
is well read and well informed on all subjects. His religious affiliations are
with the Lutheran church, and he takes a prominent part in the activities of
the church, as do all the members of the Rice family.

8o6 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

PETER J. OWENS.

xA. native son of Clinton connty, and one of the prosperous farmers and
representative citizens of the community in which he resides, the subject of
this sketch was born on the family homestead in Hampshire township, Sep-
tember I, 1855. His father, James Owen, was born in Ireland in the year
181 5, and married there, when a young man, Bridget Gallagher, who was also
a native of the Emerald Isle. Not long after this marriage, these parents
emigrated to the United States, and in the early fifties came to Clinton county,
Iowa, and settled in Hampshire, where Mr. Owens bought one hundred and
sixty acres of land, which he improved, and on which he lived and prospered
until 1890, when he turned the farm over to his son, Peter, and moved to
Lyons, where he spent the remainder of his days in retirement, dying in the
month of June, 1909. He was a man of industrious and frugal habits,
achieved gratifying success as a tiller of the soil, and stood high in the esteem
and confidence of his neighbors and fellow citizens. A Roman Catholic in
religion, he was active in the work of his church, also manifested a commend-
able interest in the affairs of his township and at one time served as trustee of
the same. James and Bridget Owens had two children, Mrs. Anna McLaugh-
lin, of Scott county, this state, and Peter J., whose name introduces this sketch.

Peter J. Owens' early life was spent on the farm which he now owns,
and he grew to maturity in close touch with the soil and with well defined
ideas of the duties and responsibilities which he would ultimately assume as a
man and citizen. His labor in the fields was varied during certain months by
attendance at the district schools of his neighborhood, and after attaining his
majority he worked for some time on the home farm for his father. Later
he left the parental roof and was absent seven years, at the expiration of
which period he returned home and assumed the management of the farm,
and after the death of his father he succeeded to the homestead, which, as
already stated, he now owns. The place which contains two hundred and
forty acres of very fine land, lies in one of the most productive agricultural
districts of Hampshire township and is admirably adapted to general farming
and stock raising, comparing favorably with any like number of acres in the
county. The buildings are substantial and up-to-date, the fencing is of best
quality, and the excellent condition of the soil, together with the general ap-
pearance of thrift which pervades the farm throughout, bear testimony to
the enterprise of the proprietor and indicates to the passerl)y a modern Ameri-
can home, in which thrift, content and hospitality abound.

Mr. Owens, like his father before him, is a Catholic in his religious be-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 807

Hef and a loyal son of the mother church, his family being identified witli the
same. He is zealous in the various lines of good work under the auspices of
the church, including the Knights of Columbus, a fraternal and benevolent
order of great merit, and also lends his aid and influence to further all meas-
ures for the material prosperity of the community and the social and moral
advancement of his fellowmen. The domestic life of Mr. Owens dates from
1880, in April of which year was solemnized his marriage with Alary A.
Laughery. of Elk River township. Clinton county, and a daughter of Patrick
and Mary Laughery, whose ancestors Avere nati\-es of Ireland. Five children
are the pledges of this union, namely: John J., Clara. Leo P., Dorin and
Alice, all living. Those doing for themselves are well settled in life and
greatly esteemed in their respective places of residence.

Leo Peter Owens, second son and third child of Peter J. and Bridget
(Laughery) Owens, was born in Lyons, Clinton county, Iowa, on the 21st
day of February. 1886. As indicated in the preceding sketch, his family is
one of the oldest and best known in the township of Hampshire, nearly, if not
C[uite, sixty years having dissolved in the mists of the past since his grand-
father, James Owens, left the Emerald Isle and established a home in the
sparsely settled county of Clinton, now one of the finest and most progressive
counties of eastern Iowa. At the proper age, young Leo entered the public
schools of Lvons, which he attended for some vears. the training he received
being afterwards supplemented by a course in the Sisters' school, under the
auspices of the Catholic church at the same place. Having early manifested
a decided preference for agriculture, he turned his attention to the same on
arriving at an age to begin life for himself, and for some time thereafter
cultivated a part of the family homestead in Hampshire township. Since
1907, however, he has been running a farm of one hundred and sixt}' acres in
the southern part of said township, his success the meanwhile being very
encouraging, as is indicated Ijy the thrifty condition of his farm and the in-
fluential place he occupies among the leading agriculturists and stock raisers
of the locality in which he resides.

Air. Owens is enterprising and puljlic spirited, not only as a farmer, but
as a citizen, and ever since attaining his majority he has kept in touch with
the times on the leading questions before the people and the issues on which
men and parties divide. In state and national affairs he is a Democrat, but
in matters local, he lets politics cut no figure, giving his support to the candi-
dates best Cjualified for the offices to which they aspire, irrespective of party
ties. Fraternally he belongs to the Woodmen of the World, and religiously
the Catholic church holds his creed. Reared under the influence of the mother

8o8 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

church, he has endeavored to make his hfe reflect its principles and teachings,
and he is today among the influential members of the congregation, with which
bodv his wife and children are also identified.

On June 2'8, 1901, Air. Owens was united in the holy bonds of wedlock
with Susie Manning, of Clinton county, the marriage being blessed with four
children, namelv : Alary Gertrude, James Legora, Joseph Francis and Helen
Margaret. Air. and Airs. Owens are quite popular and move in the best social
circles of the community in which they reside. Although primarily interested
in their own children, whom they are endeavoring to rear to lives of useful-
ness and honor, they are not unmindful of the welfare of others. E\-ery
laudable means for the moral advancement of the young people of their neigh-
borhood is sure to enlist their co-operation and support, and in their daily lives
thev exempli fv principles of honor and integrity, which bespeak a high
standard of manhood and womanhood.

THOAIAS D. GRUAISTRUP.

In this review is mentioned another member of a very worthy family
who ha\'e demonstrated their worth in numerous ways. He is descended
from clean Danish ancestry, from that nation which has above most others
cause to be proud of the character of its people, a nation of honest, sober,
intelligent. God-fearing people, whose general intelligence, standard of edu-
cation and common morality is higher than that of almost any European
nation, for they have not set to work to colonize and exploit all the other
portions of the world which they could obtain, but have been content with
modest colonial ventures, and ha\e given the time, monev. and attention
which other nations devote to colonization to the development of their home
country, with results which the world can plainly notice in the development
of their citizens and of their natural resources. The Grumstrup family are
splendid representatives of that stock.

Thomas D. Grumstrup was born in Denmark, December 8, 1868, a
son of Xis N. Grumstrup, for whom see sketch of W^alda AI. Grumstrup.
Thomas was five years old when the family came to America and located in
Clinton. He learned the woodworker's or cabinetmaker's trade, and until
1906 was an employe of Curtiss Brothers, when he and one of his brothers
started a cabinetmakers' shop known as Hansen, Grumstrup & Companv,
which lasted about fourteen months. Then the family virtuallv bought

HENRY WARNING
WALDA M. GRUMSTRUP THOMAS D. GRUMSTRUP

a ^

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 809

out the entire Anderson luirnitnre Company, and Tliomas Grumstrui) was
made vice-president. The company has since heen prosperous. He is inde-
pendent in politics, is a meml)er of the Danisli Brotlierhood and of the
Danish Society.

^\v. (irumstrup was united in marriage on Septeml)er 1. i8g2, to ?\Iinnie
Hansen, a nati\"e <^f (lermany, daughter of Ferchnand and ATarie Hansen.
To their union have l)een 1)orn three very attrnctixe young ])eo])le. Effie, a
eraduate of the Ch'nton lii^h school; T.ois. a student in the same, and Burnie.

Mr. rirumstrup thoroughh' understands the husincss in which he is en-
gaged, ha\-ing learned it from the ground up. He is a good manager, and in
everv wnv a man well ecpiipped in his chosen line. Likewise he is one \^ ho-^e
worth has gained for him deserved popularitw ■

PETER T. ^HLLER.

Herein are recorded the fortunes of one whose life shows that America
is still full of opportunities of great wcM'th to a foreigner of enterprise and
industry, who comes to this country equipped with intelligence, strength and
energy, }-et who could not rise \ery high by the possession of these alone
in his own country, where opportunity is restricted Here he finds freedom
from restriction and full opportunity for advancement, while the careful hab-
its learned in the hardships of the old country only make his chances better
here and aid him in the race o\-er the native of the country who has not learned
such careful habits.

Peter J. Miller was born in Germany. Xo\-ember iS, T86ri, the son of
Peter J. and Charlotte (Alatthiesen) Aliller. He and his parents were born in
territorv which belonged to Denmark at the time of his ])arents' birth, but
which afterwards became German territory. His father was a cabinetmaker
and in 1883 he and his oldest son came to this country and located in Chicago,
and then came to Clinton, Iowa, when thev sent for young Peter, and a year
later for his mother. Peter. Sr.. worked for C. Lamb & Sons for some time
and died in 1899. His wife is living, as also are their two sons and one
daughter.

Peter T. INIiller, ]r , received his education mostly in (iermany. and was
seventeen when he came to Clinton, after which time he spent one year in the
Clinton schools. He began to learn the blacksmith's trade in Germany when
fifteen, and first worked in this countrv for the Northwestern railroad, then

8lO CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

two years as a steamboat hand for C. Lamb & Sons, then went to work as a
blacksmith for the same company. In 1904 he bought out Condon's old shop,
on the north side of the public square, and in the fall of 1909 erected a modern
shop, where he now does blacksmithing, general repairing and wagon build-
ing. His business, which is large and employs seyeral men, is prospering and
increasing. In politics he is a Republican, and fraternally a member of the
Odd Fellows and of the Danish Society.

^Ir. ]\Iiller was married in March, 1889, to Sine Petersen, who came from
Denmark to this country when two years old, a daughter of Xels Petersen.
They haye one son. Alfred, aged eight years.

Mr. Miller has won his success by industry and ability, and is much
respected and well liked, especially among the Danish element.

THOMAS S. HINTON.

Among the thriying and prosperous manufacturing establishments of
Clinton, prominent mention should be giyen to the box and ladder factory in
which the subject of this sketch is a partner, an enterprise which has long been
in operation, and which may be considered as one of the manufacturing busi-
nesses of the city which rests on a strong and firm foundation and has a trade
well established. The managers of this company are thorough and up-to-
date business men. unceasing in their attention to their factory, whereby they
haye been prosperous.

Thomas S. Hinton was born in New Brunswick. Canada, January 2,
1858, son of Richard and Sarah (Carter) Hinton, both natiyes of Canada.
Richard Hinton was a farmer by occupation and is still Hying in Canada. Of
his fiye sons and three daughters, none are dead.

Thomas S. Hinton grew up on the farm and attended the Canadian com-
mon schools. He took up railroading, bridge-building and carpentering, and
followed this work for some years, for some time being a contractor. In
1880 he crossed the line into the United States, still engaging in the contract-
ing and building business. In 1882 he came to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and in
1892 to Clinton, where he contracted to build a box factory for the F. A.
Smith & Sons Company. He worked for them until 1903. \yhen he bought
out the senior \lr. Smith and went into partnershi]) with J. C. Smith, his son,
and they haye since managed the business.

Since the organization of the new firm the power plant and planer room

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 8l I

lia\'e been improved, and the}- ha\'e added many novelties to their product
and ha\e engaged largely in the manufacture of ladders. Thev employ
about seventy-five men throughout the year, and ship their goods mainlv to
Iowa locations. l)ut send ladders all over the middle West. The entire work
of the factory, especially the sales department, is well organized.

]\Ir. Hinton was married in 1S93 to Annie Y. Smith, sister of J. C. Smith.
Two children have been born to them, Francis Smith, who is workinsr in his
father's factory, and Hessie.

y\v. Hinton is a Republican in politics. He has by his efforts and by his
good management been responsible for a good deal of the increase in the fac-
tory's business and is conversant with every stage of the operations of the
factorv.

ROLLIN HERBERT SAVAGE.

Among the business men of Clinton county who have forged their way
to the front l)v sheer force of will and individual merit rather than by the in-
fluence and material assistance of others, no better or worthier example than
that of the subject of this brief life record could be found. He is a man of
excellent judgment, which accounts for his uniform success, possessing clear
ideas in all business matters.

Rollin Herbert Savage, the able superintendent of the Fish Brothers
wagon factory, at Clinton, Iowa, was born at Morrison, Illinois, November
21, 1863, and is the son of William J. and Lucy P. (Sholes) Savage. These
parents were born in Vermont and in ajjout 1855 they came to Illinois as
pioneers, the mother with her parents in a very early day, the maternal grand-
father, Orin Sholes, Ijeing a pioneer in the Sucker state. The parents mar-
ried in Illinois and there the father devoted his life to fanning, and later was
a dealer in hardware and implements, which he followed until his death in
1872. His widow is still living. The elder Savage was a good business man,
and he led a quiet life, giving his entire time to his family and business affairs.

Rollin H. Savage was educated in the Morrison public schools and when
fourteen years of age he began learning- the machinist's trade, attending night
school in the meantime. He had mastered the trade at the age of eighteen
and was made foreman at the Deere &-Mansur Company at Moline, remaining
with the same for eighteen years, gi\'ing them the very highest grade of
service, being successively foreman, assistant superintendent and superin-
tendent. In 1898 he left this concern and went to Davenport and took charge

8l2 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

of the wagon department of the Bettendor-f Axle Company, remaining in their
employ nntil thev went out of the wagon bnsiness. ^^Ir. Savage then went
to Neosho, jMissonri. where he bnilt. equipped and started to operate a wagon
factory. In November, 1906, he came to Clinton, Iowa, as assistant superin-
tendent of the Fish Brothers wagon factory, and became superintendent of
this concern in January, 1910, a position which he still holds. He is an ex-
pert in his chosen line of endeavor and is by nature and training well equipped
to manage the affairs of a large manufacturing concern, knowing well every
detail of the l)usiness and being popular with employes so as to get the best
results at all times. \Mierever he has been employed the prestige of the fac-
tory has been greatly augmented owing to the skill, sound judgment and
judicious counsel he has employed in the management of the same.

In politics Mr. Savage is a Republican, and he belongs to Emulation
Lodge No. 255, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and the De ]\Iolay Con-
sistory ; he is also a memljer of the Modern Woodmen of America.

Mr. Savage was married on June 11, 1890, to Julia Elizabeth Shields,
a native of Moline, and this union has resulted in the birth of two sons.
namely: Harry A., now eighteen years old, is a senior in the Clinton high
school; \\^illiam H., now fourteen years of age, is a student in the local public
schools. Mr. Savage and his whole family are members of the Presbyterian
church.

LEE CLAIR KELLY.

Prominent among the prosperous and successful farmers and noteworthy
citizens of Clinton county may be mentioned the gentleman whose name
heads this sketch. He is a descendant of one of the best known and most
esteemed families of the county, and is himself the owner of many acres of
farming land, which he keeps in a high state of cultivation and which richly
repay him for the labor and money expended on them. He is also largely
concerned in the breeding and feeding of stock, which he has found profitable.

Lee Clair Kelly \vas born April 12, 1886. on the farm which lie now
owns, and is the son of Robert and Katherine (Billheimer) Kelly. Both his
parents were natives of Pennsylvania and came to Iowa in 185 1, locating first
W'ith Mr. Kelly's parents at Elvira. Later Robert Kelly came to Lincoln
township and 1)ought a farm of four hundred and ninety-two acres, on which
he erected all the buildings save the old stone house now standing. He made
the feeding of cattle bis specialty, brought to bear on this subject brains and

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 813

business-like methods, and made it pa)- him welL His entire time was given
to his family and his farm. He died on January 23. 1906. at the close of a
respected life. His \\ife also has departed this life. Of their nine children,
five are living.

Lee Clair Kelly received his education in the Clinton ])ul)lic schools,
and in the Clinton Business College, in which he took a complete course. He
then returned to the homestead and remained with his father until the latter's
death, after which the farm was divided, and Bruce Kellv took the west one-
fourth, while Lee bought out the heirs to the remaining two hundred and
fifty acres. This portion of the farm still hears the n.ame of Meadow Brook
farm, formerly applied to the whole h\ his father. He is carrving on stock
feeding mainl}-, following in his father's footsteps, ha\-ing thoroughlv learned
that branch of farming under the latter's able tutelage. Air. Kellv is a Re-
publican in i)olitics. while in religion he is a member of the Clinton Presby-
terian church.

On May 31, 1906. Lee C. Kelly was married to Tirzah Foster, who was
born in Pennsyh'ania. but was then a resident of Clinton count\^ One child,
a sweet little daughter. Dorothy Elizal^eth, has l^een born to their union. Mr.
Kelly is a young man of sterling character and much abilitv. which he has
already proved, and with his excellent prospects, promises to live a life of
much worth both to himself and to his communitv.

JOHX CUXXIXGHAAf.

One of the highly honored and successful farmers of Hampshire town-
ship, Clinton county, is John Cunningham, who has come to us from the
beautiful and far-famed Emerald Lsle, and, judging from his well-kept, well
improved and altogether desirable farming property and also from the ex-
cellent reputation he has always borne here, it is safe to say that he brought
with him the characteristic energy, common-sense and high moral nature of
that people.

Mr. Cunningham was Ijorn in Ireland in 1832 and spent his youth there,
coming to America in 1852 and locating in Clinton county, Iowa. He has
spent most of his life engaged in farming and when he first came here he
rented land for some time until he could get a start, continuing that method,
in fact, until 1874, when he bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in
Hampshire township, this county. He improved the place and erected ex-
cellent and comfortable buildings of all kinds, and has been very successful

8 14 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

here as a general farmer. He is now living retired. He has been township
trustee for tliree years and has very faithfully performed the duties of the
same.

Mr. Cunningham was married to Margaret ^McLaughlin, who was born
in the state of \\'isconsin. She was called to her rest on Jnlv 22, igoi.
Eleven children were born to ^Ir. and Mrs. John Cunningham, ten of whom
are living, namely: Frank is located at Albany, Illinois; IMarv is the wife of
John Manning, of ]\It. Carroll; Rose is the wife of Oliver Prest, of San
Bernardino, California; Thomas is a homesteader in Scenic, Dakota; Susan is
in the employ of the "Lend-a-Hand Club," of Davenport, Iowa; Alaggie and
Annie are living in ^Minneapolis, Minnesota; James is also a homesteader in
Butte, Dakota ; Martin and Peter live on the home place, the former having
been born here on Feliruary 22, 1887, and he was educated in the home
schools, and is a \ery successful and well liked young farmer; Alice is de-
ceased. These children have been well educated, having attended the semi-
nary at Lyons and then the Clinton Business College.

This family is highly respected wherever its members are known and
they have a wide circle of friends ?nd are very well situated in reference to
tin's world's affairs. Mr. Cunningham and his family are all members of
the Catholic church. Politicallv, he is a Democrat.

WILLIAM HEXDERSOX POSTOX.

It is a pleasure to the biographer to record the life nf a man whose actions
have been so full of interest as those of the gentleman whose name heads this
article, whose history is full of experiences which have brought a fullness of
life to him. and whose ancestors were men and women of worth and honor.

William Henderson Poston was born in Rock Island county, Illinois, Aug-
ust 27, 1858, son of Samuel and Sarah (Wolf) Poston. His father was a
native of Virginia, and his paternal grandfather, Elias Poston, was a com-
missioned officer in the war of 181 2, and also state representative from his
district in Virginia. He was of Scotch descent, and the family is one of the
oldest in the state. William's maternal grandparents were Pennsvlvanians,
pioneer settlers of Allegheny county, that state, which they entered before it
was cleared and had many exciting experiences with the Indians. Thev died
in Rock Island county, Illinois.

Samuel Poston was l:!orn and grew up in the mountain gap where Mc-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 815

Clellan fought his first battle. His father was a slave owner in early days,
but in 1838 freed them all because he thought it wrong to keep them, and a
few years later, in the early forties, moved to the free state of Iowa, coming
west on an Ohio steamboat and ascending the ^Mississippi in a similar manner.
He located in Scott county, near Le Clair, then called Parkhurst. Here he
was married to Sarah \\'olf, who had come west with her parents, and for
many vears he was a wagonmaker. William Cody, later famous as "Buffalo
Bill," was a friend of the family and as a boy spent many a day in ]\Ir.
Poston's shop. In 1857 the family moved to Rock Island county, Illinois,
and there the father followed the same trade. Four of his brothers served in
the Ci\il war. and one of them, .\lfred, died four days after his return from
serving in the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Illinois Regiment. Samuel
Poston died in 1885 '^'^'^^^ 1'''^ wife in 1880. They were the parents of eight
children, six of whom are living.

A\'illiam Poston was educated in the public schools of Rock Island county,
Illinois, and when he was still under fourteen his father told him that he was
old enough to get to work, so he began to labor on the farms, and worked four
years for one man. He then served an apprenticeship in a wagon shop,
worked two }ears as a journeyman, and then opened a wagonmaking shop in
Fort Byron, Illinois. On April lo, 1890, he came to Clinton, Iowa, and
started into business at Xos. 1101-3-5 South Fourth street. He was absolutely
alone, but gradually added to his force as business increased, and in 1907,
because of pressure of business, had to add another building to the old one
which he had bought. He now employs from ten to twelve men, but on April
I, 1910, quit wagonmaking to enter that of automobile repairing, which busi-
ness he recently disposed of.

In national politics Mr. Poston is a Democrat, but in local affairs is inde-
pendent. He was for two years a member of the city council and was also for
two years on the school board, being for one year president. He was one
time the Democratic candidate for mayor. He is a member of the De ^Nlolav
Consistory of Masons.

Mr. Poston was married on Xovember 20, 1882, to Emma ^Nlilne, a
native of Oswego county, Xew York, daughter of James Milne, now residing
in Fulton, Illinois. Four children have been born to them; Frank, a cigar
merchant; Elsie, wife of William Graham; Mae, deceased, and Alaude.

Mr. Poston was thoroughly skilled in the Avagonmaker's trade and the
products of his shop were models of efliciency. He is much interested in
public affairs and in all which promises to advance the general interest. He
has many friends in Clinton.

8l6 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

CHRISTOPH JOHN GOHLMAN.

Prominent among the enterprising farmers and stock raisers of Clinton
count}' is Christoph John Gohhnan, a leading citizen of Berlin township,
whom to know is to esteem and honor. As the name indicates, he is of Ger-
man stock, his parents, John G. and Katrina (jMoll'erstedt) Gohlman, noticed
elsewhere in this \'olume, having been born and reared in the fatherland,
where the ancestors of the family have lived for many generations. Mr.
Gohlman is a native of Clinton county, Iowa, and dates his birth from March
31, 1857. His educational discipline included the common school branches,
which he mastered in his youth, and in the school of experience on the family
homestead he learned the lessons of practical industry and self-denial which
furnished the foundation for his subsequent career as a progressive farmer
and public-spirited man of affairs. Reared in close touch with nature, he
took kindl}' to agricultural pursuits and on reaching an age when it became
necessary for him to choose a vocation, he very naturally selected farming,
to which noble calling he has since devoted his time and energies with most
gratifying results.

In the year 1889, Air. Gohlman bought the fine two-hundred-acre farm
in Berlin township on which he still lives, and which the meanwhile he has
brought to a high state of culti\ation, l^esides adding a number of improve-
ments until his home is now one of the most beautiful and attractive places
of residence in the community. The buildings are substantial, up to date
and in excellent condition. The land, cultivated to its full capacity, yields
abundantly all the crops indigeiious to this latitude, and the proprietor has
so managed his \-aried interests of farming and stock raising as to accumu-
late a handsome competence and place himself and family in comfortable cir-
cumstances. Mr. Gohlman is a pronounced Democrat in his political views
and from time to time has been honored by his fellow-citizens with important
official positions. He served several years as collector and school director,
held the office of trustee for some time and in various other capacities dem-
onstrated ability and faithfulness as a pubdic servant and j^iroved himself
worthy the trust reposed in him ]:)y his fellowmen.

Mr. Gohlman was married in the year 1882 to Katrina Raun, a native
of Germany, who has presented him with six children, namely : Bertha,
Theodore. Anna, Alma, Laura and John, all living and affording their fond
parents many bright hopes for the future. Mr. and Mrs. Gohlman are mem-
bers of the Evangelical Lutheran church, active and zealous in the good work
under the auspices of the local congregation to which they l^elong, and readv

MR. AND MRS. CHRISTOPH J. (,OHLMAN

PI l.l>iU Liu..Aii.Y

A8"'0 \ V-rOX, AND
i1IlDt?N FOUNDATIONS
R L

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 817

at all times to lend their influence to further worthy charitable and humani-
tarian enterprises. He is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America,
and she to the Royal Neighbors, in which organizations they are recognized
as valuable workers, besides holding important offices from time to time.
Mr. Gohhnan is one of the most respected citizens of Berlin township, and,
assisted by his faithful wife, he has reared a family which is a credit to the
community. A self made man, guided by keen perception and well-developed
intelligence, he has earned a competence which in the near future will result
in ease and comfort for the remainder of a peaceful and happy hfe.

Mention should be made of the parents of Mrs. Gohlman. She was the
daughter of Christian and Anna (Holtz) Raun, who farmed on a small
scale in Germany. They had a family of seven girls and one son, namely :
Christina, Maria, Alaren, Lena, Katrina. Peter, Anna and Dorethia. Three
sisters came to this countrv and the rest are still in Ciermanv.

AXSEL O. COLE.

Occupying a conspicuous position among the men of industry in Clinton
county, Ansel O. Cole is eminently deserving of mention in a work of the
province of the one at hand, and he enjoys the confidence and esteem of all
who know him. His record demonstrates that where there is a will there is
a way and that obstacles to success may be overcome by courage and self-
reliance.

Mr. Cole was born in Bristol county, Massachusetts, April 12, 1853, and
he is the son of George C. and Mary A. (Rounds) Cole, the latter born in
18 1 7. They were both natives of Massachusetts and there the father en-
gaged in farming and also taught school there for many years. He was a
well educated man and popular in his community, taking much interest in the
affairs of his town, but he was not a public man and preferred the Cjuiet of
home life. His death occurred in 1869 and the death of Mrs. Cole occurred
in 1878. They were the parents of five children, four sons and one daughter,
the latter being deceased.

Ansel O. Cole, of this review, was educated in the common schools of
Bristol county, Massachusetts, and he was reared on the home farm where
he became acquainted with the general work on the place when but a boy.
He served four years as an apprentice to the mason's trade, and followed the
same for a period of ten years. Giving up this line of endeavor, he entered
(52)

8l8 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

a jewelry manufactory, in which he worked for a period of five years, being
very successful in the same. Then his wife died and he came to Lyons,
Iowa, in 1885 and became connected with the M. A. Disbrow Company, in
which he worked up to the position of superintendent in due course of time
and this he still holds, giving the firm the utmost satisfaction, always ful-
filling his duties in a very faithful manner. This establishment employs about
one hundred and fifty men and is doing a large and ever-increasing business,
due in no small degree to the wise counsel and able management of Mr. Cole,
who not only understands every detail of the work, but who knows how to
handle men so as to get the best service and retain their good will at the
same time. The products of this farm are sash, doors, blinds and interior
furnishing goods of all kinds; A large trade is carried on. the major part of
the shipments being to the western states. Owing to the high quality of these
products, they are in great demand. Mr. Cole is president of the Disbrow
Sash and Door Company of Cedar Rapids. Iowa, which is also doing a big
business.

In politics Mr. Cole is a Republican, but is independent in local affairs.
He has served about four years on the school board. He is a member of the
Episcopal church, being junior warden in the local congregation. He is liberal
in his support of the church and all worthy charitable institutions.

My. Cole was married in 1875 to jMartha L. Copeland, sister of the secre-
tary and treasurer of the Disbrow Company. To Mr. and Mrs. Cole one
child was born, Maynard C, now living in Omaha, Nebraska. ]Mr. Cole's
first wife passed to her rest in 1884 and he was married in 1889 to Gertrude
^I. A\'aters, a native of Moline, Illinois. This union also resulted in the
birth of one child, who died in infancv.

F. B. KIXG.

One of the enterprising meii of Clinton county is F. B. King, a gentle-
man who is too well known, in fact, to need any formal introduction or elab-
oration on his life history here, for he has long been a conspicuous figure in
the manufacturing business and social life of eastern Iowa and therefore the
major part of this sketch will be devoted to the large concern with which he
is identified. Suflice it to say that he has worthily upheld the honor of his
family name and the wholesome traditions clustering about it, and that he has
ever taken an abiding interest in the upbuilding of Clinton and vicinitv. and

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 819

is deserving in every way of the large success that has attended his efforts
and of the esteem in which he is held.

Mr. King was born in Savanna, Illinois, in 1867, and he is the son of C.
H. King, an old river man and steamboat captain who was well known on
the rivers of the Middle states in the early days.

F. B. King received a liberal education and spent his youth in his home
community. In 1880 he came to Clinton, Iowa, and entered the City Bank,
in which he remained eleven years, giving entire satisfaction to all concerned.
He then became associated with the Clinton Separator and Engine Works,
and has been connected with the same ever since, in fact, no little credit is due
him for the constantly growing prestige and business of this firm, having
given it his judicious management and undivided attention and ably looked
after its interests at all times.

This manufacturing concern was incorporated on January i, 1901. and
efforts were at once begun to build a patented cream separator, with a small
gasoline engine to run it. The officers were : J. D. Lamb, president ; G. E.
Lamb, vice-president; S. \A'. McKee, second vice-president; W. O. Pratt,
secretary. They continued in this line of work to January, 1903, then
started to build boats and marine engines, having sold out the separator busi-
ness. A reorganization was effected and the plant was enlarged somewhat
and on October 9, 1903, the name was changed to the Lamb Boat & Engine
Company, with J. D. Lamb as president ; G. E. Lamb, vice-president ; F. B.
King, secretary and treasurer. J. D. Lamb (a full sketch of whom appears
elsewhere in this work) was drowned on ]\Iay 12. 1905. and since that time
G. E. Lamb has been president of this firm ; V. A. Bonny, vice-president ; F.
B. King, secretary and treasurer.

In 1903 this firm employed from fifteen to twenty men; now on an aver-
age of seventy-five men are employed and the business is still growing. They
have discontinued building boats and the firm now gives its attention ex-
clusivelv to building large marine engines, which, owing to their superior
quality and workmanship, are eagerly sought after and they find a- very ready
market, the demand increasing all the time. The firm now has a branch office
in >s'ew York City where about fifty per cent, of the product of this factory-
is shipped. These engines go over the entire world where such advanced
products are used. This product is regarded as a standard engine on both
the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. It has been developed from a small two-cycle
engine to a larger and more complex type. They are now installed in some of
the finest boats to be found on the eastern coast, also the western. A separate
corporation, known as the Lamb Engine Company, with offices in the Hudson

820 CLINTON COUNTYj IOWA,

Terminal Building, handles the business in New York City. These engines
are especially sought for by builders of large yachts. This was originally a
purely local concern, but now the business is done very largely away from
Clinton, though there is yet considerable business done here. It seems that
the motor boat business is growing rapidly all over the country, following
closely the automobile industry, and the local company owes its growth to
this development in the universal and rapidly growing use of motor boats.

WILLIAM L. DIECKMANN.

The record of the subject of this review is that of a gentleman who
worthily upholds an honored family name that has long stood for high grade
citizenship in Clinton county. He has figured prominently in industrial
affairs, although yet a young man, and at the same time has won an envied
reputation for honesty and straightforward dealing with all his fellow men
and he has therefore won their undivided confidence.

William L. Dieckmann, secretary and treasurer of the Hansen & Dieck-
mann Furniture Company, of Clinton, Iowa, and a member of the real estate
and insurance firm of Paddock & Dieckmann. was born at Wheatland, this
county, June 29, I'S/Q, and he is the son of Frederick and Fredericke (Layere)
Dieckmann. They were born in Germany, and the father came to America
when a boy, the mother making the trip about 1858. They were married in
Kentucky. The father studied for the ministry and subsequently entered the
same, but abandoned the life of a preacher to study medicine, which he prac-
ticed with much success later in life. He was a profoundly educated man and
was influential wherever he went. He came to Wheatland, Iowa, about 1876
or 1877 and he at once became prominent in Clinton county. He was always
active in political afifairs and his support could be depended upon in all meas-
ures calculated to be of general good to the community.

William L. Dieckmann was educated in the public schools of Clinton,
receiving a very serviceable text-book training. After graduation from Clin-
ton high school, he started in life for himself by entering the real estate and
insurance business with his oldest brother, Fred Dieckmann, and A. H. Pad-
dock, under the firm name of Paddock & Dieckmann, which partnership lasted
until the death of the subject's brother, Fred, since which time the finn of
Paddock & Dieckmann has been composed of A. H. Paddock and W. L. Dieck-
mann. This firm has built up a very satisfactory business in this line and

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 821

ranks as one of the strongest in the state. They ha\e the agency for twenty-
five of the oldest and strongest insurance companies in the business. Though
able to underwrite all kinds of insurance, they confine their efforts mainly to
fire and tornado, casualty and burglaiy insurance, and issuance of surety
bonds. Paddock & Dieckmann negotiate real estate loans and have been very
successful in this line. They are justly proud of the fact that no loan ever
recommended by them has recjuired legal action to enforce payment of princi-
pal or interest.

Mr. Dieckmann next turned his attention to the furniture manufacturing
industry and by close application to this line of work and judicious manage-
ment he has built up a large and rapidly growing business under the corporate
name of Hansen & Dieckmann Furniture Company at Clinton. They have a
model plant, equipped with the latest designs of wood working machinery, and
manufacture extension, library and center tables. The goods of this firm
are highly esteemed ])y the furniture dealers of the Middle West.

Mr. Dieckmann has never ])een a candidate for political preferment and
frnternallv lie belongs to the various Masonic bodies, and is a member of the
Wapsipinicon Clul}.

CHARLES W. KENNEY.

It is a rare privilege to be able to spend our lives on the old home place ;
there is a charm under "the roof that hears our earliest cry," that never
vanishes, but for some caprice of fate few of us are permitted to remain at
our birthplace ; we are ushered out into strange lands among strange people
and are compelled to form new ties and often adopt different modes of exist-
ence. This has not been the case with Charles W". Kenny, of Clinton county,
who was born on December 24, 1868, on the farm which he now occupies.
He is the son of Patrick and ^Margaret (Blessington ) Kenney, both born in
Ireland, from which country they came to America in 1847 ^"'^^ 1840, respect-
ively. The father came alone and after a few years spent in New York,
Michigan and Wisconsin, he came to Clinton count}', Iowa, in 185 1 or 1852
and entered government land, being among the pioneers. He developed his
one hundred and sixty acres in Hampshire township into an excellent farm,
by clearing and improving it, and he was married in this county, having been
a young man and single when he came here. The maternal grandparents,
the Blessington family, came to America about 1840 and located in Vermont.
They left their daughter Margaret in the city of Lowell, Massachusetts, where

822 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA,

she found employment in the cotton mills ; later she came to Clinton county,
Iowa, and married Patrick Kenney. To this union eight children were born,
seven of whom are living. Patrick Kenney has never been a public man,
living a quiet life, yet interested in local affairs. He has lived retired in
Lyons since 1893. His wife died in 1905.

Charles \\\ Kenny was educated in the common schools and reared on
the home farm where he assisted with the work of clearing and developing
and he has never cared to follow any other line of work. About 1900 he
bought the old home place of one hundred and sixty acres. He has managed
the same very successfully and has made a great success in stock raising,
breeding high grade Aberdeen Angus cattle, draft horses and other good
stock, which always find a ready market owing to their superior cjuality.

Politically, Mr. Kenney is a Democrat. He has been township assessor
for six years and is now township trustee, and is also secretary of the school
board at present. He Ijelongs to St. Iraneaus Catholic church at Lvons. and
to the Woodmen of the World.

On April 10, 1893, Mr. Kenney married Rosa V. Shannon, daughter of
Patrick and Julia Shannon, old settlers of Washington township. This
union resulted in the l)irth of eight children, namely: Charles J., Francis P.,
Beatrice M., Andrew. Joseph (died in infancy), Rose Lillian, Monica and
James G. The mother of these children was called to her rest on May 18,
1910. She was a woman of beautiful Christian character and had a host of
friends.

FRANK J. McDERMOTT.

Though a young man, Frank J. ]\Icl^ermott has shown what earnestness
of purpose can accomplish in connection with agricultural interests, and if he
continues to use the good judgment and energy that have characterized his
past he will be abundantly rewarded l)v future years.

Mr. McDermott was born in Lincoln township. Clinton county, Iowa,
on February 18, 1881. He is the son of Flenry and Mary (Welsh) McDer-
mott, he born in Ireland and the mother in St. Louis, Missouri. The father
emigrated to America in aljout 1850 and located in Hampshire township,
Clinton county, Iowa, where he took up a farm of about one hundred and
sixty acres, which he improved and on which he placed an excellent group of
buildings. He cleared the land, beginning life here in true pioneer fashion.
Selling out there, he mo^'ed to Lincoln township, where he bought a farm of

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 823

three hundred and twenty acres and there he became one of the leading agri-
cuhurists and was a man of influence. Hving there until his death, in 1904. at
the advanced age of eighty-eight years. He was not a public man. preferring
to live a quiet and retired life. His widow is still living. They were the par-
ents of four children, and by a former marriage Air. AIcDermott was the
father of four children; all are living.

Frank J. AIcDermott, of this re^•iew. was educated in the common
schools and he was reared on the home farm where he began working in the
fields when but a lad and he has made agriculture his chief life work and now
operates half of the home place, his brother, Paul, operating the other half.
He has been \ery successful and is a general farmer and stock faiser and is
succeeding admirably well. In politics he is a Democrat, and he belongs to
the Catholic church at Lyons.

On September 8. 1907, Air. AIcDermott was married to Anna W^ebber,
a native of Clinton, Iowa, where she was reared and educated and where her
family is highly respected. To this union one child has been born. Alarian.
Fraternally, Air. AIcDermott is a member of the Alodern ^'\^oodmen of
America, while, politically, he is a Democrat.

HIRAAI E. JAAIEYSON.

Among the business men of Clinton county who are reaping the rewards
of persistent endeavor along legitimate lines and who are worthy of the con-
fidence reposed in them by their associates and patrons is H. E. Jameyson.
The record of his business career might be summed up in the terse expression
that he is "above want and below envy."

Air. Jameyson was born in Lyons, Clinton county, Iowa. January 2,
1862, and he is the son of Elias and Amanda Jameyson. who were born in
Canada and Xew York respectively. The father came to the "States'" xery
early and married in Ohio, where the parents of his wife had moved when the
country was new. Later they emigrated west and located in Elk River town-
ship, Clinton county, Iowa, during the fifties. Elias Jameyson devoted his
life to farming and owned a small farm. He lived a quiet, retired life, work-
ing his farm and devoting his attention to his family.

To Air. and Airs. Elias Jameyson nine children were born, five of whom
are living. The father's death occurrerl in 1907. and the mother passed away
in 1882.

824 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Hiram E. Jameyson was educated in the common schools of Clinton and
reared on a farm, where he was put to \vork in the fields early in life. When
twenty-one years old he began life for himself by entering the sawmill business
which he continued for a period of thirteen years, then entered the gravel,
sand and cement business, and has been very successful in this line since 1894.
For about ten years Mr. Jameyson handled ice in connection with his other
line, but has dropped that phase of his business. He also handled fish since
1894, having about twenty men in that trade alone. He does an ice contract-
ing business for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Company, hav-
ing supplied the local demand of the company for years.

Politically. Mr. Jameyson is a Republican, and fraternally he belongs to
the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, Lodge No. 93, at Clinton.

Mr. Jameyson was married in 1883 to Laura Thompson, and this union
has resulted in the birth of five children, namely : Vernon, now a resident of
Washington state; Edna, the wife of William Harlot, Jr.; Coral, the wife of
Samuel Stul^ble, Jr. ; Elva and Cecil.

Mr. Jameyson has a very pleasant and attractive home on South Fifth
street, Lyons. He is known to be a man of integrity and his standing in
business and social circles could not be better.

RICHARD HUGHES.

To be an efficient and honorable agriculturist in the highly favored sec-
tion of eastern Iowa, where the soil responds generously to the hand which
cultivates it, is to be assured of a comfortable home and favorable surround-
ings. Among the successful farmers of Clinton county is Richard Hug"hes, of
Berlin township, who was l^orn on the farm \vhere' he now lives, April 9,
1857. His father was Richard Hughes, and liis mother, prior to her mar-
riasfe, bore the name of Esther O'Brien, both natives of Ireland. These
parents came to the United States in the late forties, and after spending a
)''ear or two in La Salle county, Illinois, moved to Clinton county. Iowa,
and settled on sixty acres of land in Berlin township, which INIr. Hughes
purcliased of the go\-ernment. He bought other land at inter\-als, until in
due time he became one of the largest owners of real estate in the county,
his holdings at one time amounting to over six hundred acres, all in the
township of Berlin. He was one of the leading farmers in his part of the
country, manifested an active interest in public affairs, and enjoyed the

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RICHARD HUGHES

Til'" 71V. ' --fV-i^

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 825

esteem and confidence of the people of his community, besides holding- worthy
prestige as a public-spirited citizen. He lived an honorable life, which
terminated on September 20, 1901, his wife dying on the 4th day of October,
1907. Richard and Esther Hughes reared a family of ten children, namely:
Michael, of Lyon county. Iowa; Richard, of this review; Anna, who lives
in Pl'vmouth county, this state ; Katie, of Berlin township ; Patrick, whose
home is in the county of Plymouth; Thomas, who resides in Berlin township,
near the family homestead; William, who lives on the old homestead; Janies,
a resident of Lost Nation, this county; Mary and Ellen, deceased.

Richard Hughes was reared on the home place in Berlin township and
enjoyed such educational advantages as the common schools afforded. He
earlv decided to be a tiller of the soil, and in 1901 bought eighty acres of
land belonging to the homestead, to which he has added other places from
time to time until he now owns two hundred acres of the farm, on which
he has made a number of \-aluable improvements. He devotes his attention
to general agriculture and the breeding of fine live stock, his specialties being
Norman horses. Shorthorn cattle and Poland-China hogs, in the raising of
which he has been remarkal)ly successful, his reputation as a stockman being
second to that of no other man in this part of the state. Financially, he has
been exceedingly fortunate. ])eing among the wealthy and influential farmers
of his township, with a sufficiency of this world's goods at his command
to insure an easy and prosperous future. Like all men with the interests of
the communitv at heart, he takes an acti\-e part in puljlic aft'airs. and has
well-grounded convictions concerning the f|uestions of the day. l)eing' an
uncompromising Democrat in politics and a leader of his i)arty in the t(Twn-
ship of Berlin. Wdiile zealous in the defense of his principles, he has ne\'er
sought or desired office, not^^•ithstanding whicli he has ser\'ed his fellow-
citizens in various public capacities and pro\"ed true to e\'er\- trust wliich
they reposed in him. Religiously, he was reared under the influence of the
Roman Catholic church and has e\-er remained true to the teachings of the
same, belonging at this time to the congregation worsliipping at Hughes
Settlement, of which his wife and children are meml:ers also.

On the 23d day of January, 1883, Mr. Hughes was united in marriage
with Margaret Sjjain. whose parents. John and Bridget (Quigley) Spain,
nati\es of Canada, came to Iowa in 185 1. and were among the early residents
and well-known families of Clinton count}'. The following are the names
of the children born to 'Sir. and Mrs. Hughes: Esther, wife of Joseph Sul-
liAan ; Catherine, Jose])h. Ellen. Ignatius. Marguerite. John and Ligora. Mr.

826 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

Hughes and his estimable wife have been zealous in religious and charitable
work and their neighbors and friends speak in high terms of their many
sterling qualities of mind and heart. They have a pleasant home, in which
hospitality alx)unds, and all who cross their threshold are greeted with a
welcome, which delays as long as possible their departure. Possessing a
pleasing personalit}-, with a manner which inspires confidence, Mr. Hughes
is one of the most popular citizens of his community, a fact made apparent
by his faculty of winning and retaining warm personal friendships.

JOHN WILLIAM MILLER.

The young man whom we are now considering has literally made his
own w^ay from boyhood, having been left an orphan at a vevy early age and
having during his youth worked at a great variety of trades and occupations,
and passed through some hardships. In this way he has acquired a schooling
in the w^ays of the world such as it is the lot of few boys to obtain, and whose
value is almost incalculable, though it is hard to reckon even this over against
the loss of a father's care and a mother's love, which he early sustained and
has felt at all times since. The record of his youth is exceedingly interesting.

John W. Miller was born in Lyons, Iowa, on May 15, 1876, the son of
William M. and Mary (Hagemann) Miller. His parents were born in Ger-
many and came early to America, locating at Lyons, where his father was a
grocer and dry goods merchant, well known as such to the older residents of
the town. When John was two years old his mother died, and when he
was seven, his father passed away. John lived wnth his step-parents and re-
ceived his education in the Lyons common schools, the Lyons high school, and
Clinton Business College. While going to school as a mere boy he worked
in the summer for Gardner, Bacheller & Wells for ten cents per day. Later
he w^orked for Disbro & Company nine months at thirty-five cents a day.
Then he was with the George Ashton Dry Goods Company for one year,
worked for I. A. Nattenger. the dry goods merchant, for three years and two
months, and then eight months for the Chicago Clothing Company, w'here he
used to work of evenings while attending the business college. About April
15, 1896, he went to work on the steamer "Reindeer" in the packet line, re-
mained on her for five months, and then, going to Chicago, became a newsboy
on the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern, following this for five months.
Then, on returning to Clinton, he obtained a position with the Welke Coal &

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 82/

Ice Company, and in 190 1 was made manager. This is the oldest fuel com-
pany in Lyons. This company has also an office in CHnton under the name
of the Clinton Coal & Ice Company, and Mr. Miller is also manager of that.
This office was located at No. 134 Fourth avenue on Ji-ine i, 1905. In 1905
Mr. Miller purchased the first up-to-date spring ice wagon ever seen in Clin-
ton, and this is only an example of his general progressiveness. He is a
director in the Clinton District Agricultural Fair Association. Fraternally,
he is a member of the Woodmen of the World, which he joined in April,
1910. He is a Democrat, and in 1904, at the age of twenty-seven, was elected
alderman from the sixth ward, being one of the youngest ever elected here.
In 1908 he was re-elected, and again in 19 10. His first election was by a
majority of eighteen, the second by forty-six, the third by eighty-eight, show-
ing that his efficient service is being recognized. Three days before the 1904
election he was requested by some of his friends, old Democrats, to make the
race for alderman. He believed himself to be too young, but was finally
persuaded.

Mr. ]\Iiller was married on November 28, 1899, to j\Iae Dorsey, a native
of Lyons, daughter of Patrick and Anna Dorsey, her father one of the first
ice men in Clinton and two terms a member of the city council. They are
the parents of two interesting and attractive children, Lucile Katherine, aged
seven, and William Dorsey, aged five.

Mr. Miller owns a pleasant and comfortable home at No. 303 South
Seventh street. He has many friends in the city, and is considered by all as
one of the livest and most promising business men in the county. Mrs.
Miller is a member of the Catholic church.

AVILLIAM ALBERT WILKE.

Here is mentioned one of the business men of Clinton who has made him-
self well known throughout the city as one of the most reliable in all his deal-
ings and operations and as a manager of remarkable ability. Born in Ger-
manv. he came to this country a young man after receiving the training for
which Germany is famous, in her unexcelled schools, which do so much to
inculcate the spirit of industry, a German national trait ; and in her army, the
training in which gives the understanding of discipline and the building up of
a physique which will withstand all the hardships of life. With this training,
and with his own native ability, it is small wonder that he has been so sue-

828 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

cessful even though hampered at first by being in a foreign country, among
people who spoke a foreign tongue.

WilHam Albert Wilke was born in Demmin, Pommerania, Germany,
September 9. 1859. son of Carl Wilke, who is mentioned elsewhere in this
work. He received his education in the German schools and served three
years in the army. In October. i8'85, he came to America and located in
Clinton, where the w^hole family made their residence for some time. He
worked one year on farms, then took up teaming and was engaged in this
until 1 89 1 or 1892. when, with Fred C. Wilke, he started the ^^1lke Brothers
Coal & Ice Company. After some years successful operation of this company,
he bought out his brother and in 1897 organized the Wilke Coal & Ice Com-
pany. This company owns and controls the Clinton Coal & Ice Company.
Mr. W. A. \\^ilke is president of the Wilke Coal & Ice Company, which has
been very successful and carries on extensive operations, having manv satis-
fied customers, the best advertisement for any firm.

?dr. Wilke w's married in i88~ to ^Irs. Kati? Miller, formerh- Aliss
Katie Klint. No children have 1)een born to their union. Mr. Wilke is a
Democrat in politics. In fraternal relations he is a member of the Knights
of Pythias, and in his every day life applies the fraternal principles of his
order. He has gained many friends for himself during his residence and
career of business activity in Clinton, and is by all considered one of her most
progressive men.

CHARLES F. HOOKS.

Like most voung men. the one of whom we are now writing has not
passed through enough of life to make his history long, for his record must
of necessity be more in the future than in the past. But he has shown the
mettle that is in him and is now in a very responsible position in a manufactur-
ing establishment. He is well known among the business men of the city
anrl has a verv promising future. He is of Irish descent, one of that race
wliich will not be downed, and which seems especially fitted for positions of
command and management, showing clearly in his activities the value of that
blood which fills his veins.

Charles F. Hooks was born in Clinton. Iowa. October 26. 1884. the
son of Patrick and Katherine (Killagan) Hooks. His parents were born in
Ireland, and very early came to America, locating in Clinton, where his father
was engaged in the lumber Inisincss for many years, having a large and pros-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 829

perotis business. Patrick Hooks has given the most of his hfe to his business
and now is Hving a retired hfe in Chnton. He has many friends and is
spending his old age in peace, quiet and honor. Of his thirteen children,
twelve are living and doing well in the world.

Charles Hooks attended the Clinton public schools and St. Mary's paroch-
ial school, being graduated in the latter. For some time he worked at various
things, but in 1905 entered the employ of the Clinton Spring Bed Company, a
leading manufacturing establishment of the city. In 1909 this was reorgan-
ized and he was made vice-president of the Clinton Furniture Company, a
position which he now holds and has efficiently filled.

In politics, Mr. Hooks is a Democrat, and he is a member of the Catholic
church. He is a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters, of the Knights
of Columbus, and of the Iowa Catholic Total Abstinence Society. He has a
high reputation in Clinton for business sagacity and acumen, and has many
friends, especially among the younger element. He is unmarried.

The Clinton Furniture Company is a prosperous organization with a
large and increasing output, and much of its prosperity is due to the good
management of Mr. Hooks.

JOHN WINGERT EVANS.

The subject of this sketch is of English descent, fortunate to count him-
self as of that nation which has spread its dominion farther than empire ever
before extended, and has developed a language in use by more people than
ever spoke the same tongue before. Englishmen, wherever found, are among
the leaders, and our own cosmopolitan nation is built on an English foundation
and has assimilated many of the traits which have made the mother country
mistress of the world's greatest dominion. Although we are nominally an
Anglo-Saxon nation, still it is unusual at this date to find a community where
this is literally true and where a majority of the citizens are of English descent,
even remotely.

John Wingert Evans was born in Clarence, Iowa, February 26, 1872, son
of Charles Albert and Ellen (Wingert) Evans, his father a native of England,
his mother of Marvdand. Charles Albert Evans came to this country in 1844
with his father, John Evans, and family. They located in Wisconsin first.
Charles A. Evans, at the age of about twenty-six, came to Clarence, Iowa,
making the iourney by horse and wagon instead of trains, and having to ferry

830 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

across the Mississippi. He was married in Clarence and has since farmed in
Cedar county, owning one hundred and sixty acres. He and his wife are
now Hving in Chnton, retired. They are the parents of three children, all
li\-ing. Charles A.. Jr.. Ada, wife of H. B. Acott, and John \\\

John W. Evans was educated in the Clarence high school, and remained
on the farm until graduation. He then went to Chicago, in 1889, and clerked
there in a retail store. In 1894 he removed to Clinton and bought out a drug
store at No. 1020 West Fourth street, and has been here ever since. His
business was very small to begin \vith, but has since grown to large pro-
portions, due to his good management. In politics he is a Republican on
national issues, but votes independently on local affairs. He is a member of
the Western Star Lodge of Masons, of the Elks, and of the Woodmen of the
World.

Mr. Evans was married in 1896 to Edna L. Mitchell, a native of Clinton,
daughter of William F. Mitchell, an old settler who came here when a boy.
They are the parents of one very attractive little daughter. Mae Leverge.

Mr. Evans' maternal grandparents were Peter and Isabel (Gary) Wing-
ert, natives of Maryland, but of Pennsylvania-German descent. They came
west to Peoria, Illinois, remained there but a short time and then came to
York Prairie, Iowa.

Mr. Evans is one of the most progressive druggists in the city and has a
thoroughly up-to-date and well ecjuipped drug store. He is very successful in
attracting trade, acting on the maxim that a satisfied customer is the best trade
getter. Personally, he is a man of splendid character and high standing in
the community.

MILO J. JOHN.

The enterprising business man whose name heads this article is clearly
entitled to specific mention in this work. Carefully brought up in his home,
and well instructed in the principles of living by his patriotic father, he has
been since faithful to his teachings, and has lived a life in accordance, which
has brought him business success and has won for him the esteem of the peo-
ple of his city.

Milo J. John was born in Springfield, Ohio, July 28, 1856, the son of
Howard D. and Eliza (Powell) John. His paternal grandparents were
Peter and (Stough) John, the John family being an old Virginia fam-
ily of Welsh descent. They, after the birth of their son Peter, moved from
Virginia to Pennsylvania, and there died. The maternal grandparents were

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 83 1

Benjamin, a native of Kentiick)-, and Elvira (Winans) Powell, who very early
located in Ohio, where their family were born and where they died.

Howard D. John was married in Ohio, and was a carpenter in Spring-
field. ^^'hen the war broke out he enlisted in i\pril, 1861, in Company I, Sec-
ond Ohio Volunteers, and was first lieutenant at the battle of Bull Run.
Later he organized a company which joined the Eighty-sixth Ohio as Com-
pany I, with him as captain. After his second term of enlistment expired, he
enlisted again, and was elected colonel of the One Hundred and Twenty-ninth
Ohio, and served in that capacity for some time. His wife died in 1863.
After the war Colonel John took up the carpenter's trade, and followed it
until his death, in Springfield, Ohio, on August 24, 1882. He was much
respected in his community.

Milo John was one of two children of his parents, his brother Charles
R., now living in Colorado. Milo attended the public schools, and Witten-
burg College at Springfield. He entered the drug business and worked at it
there for three years and a half. For the same length of time he was engaged
in the business at Columbus, then returned to Springfield for a year. In 1884
he came to Clinton, Iowa, and went into partnership with George Bacon, at the
corner of Fifth avenue and Third street, under the name of John & Bacon,
continuing four years, when Mr. John, having meanwhile married, sold out
and went to Des Moines. Four years later he returned to Clinton, and there,
with John Smith and H. E. By rum, now the second vice-president of the
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy railroad, organized the Clinton Fruit & Prod-
uce Company. This lasted three years, then, in 1896, Mr. John bought out
the business at his old stand, and has since carried on a drug store and phar-
macy at that place, under the name of Milo J. John & Company, the store being
one of the best appointed and largest in the city. Mr. John is a director and
vice-president of the Tri-City Telephone Company. In politics he is a
Republican, but frequently votes independently. He is a Scottish Rite Mason,
and is a member of Emulation Lodge, Keystone Chapter, Holy Cross Com-
mandery and Cincinnati Consistory. He is a member of the military order of
the Loyal Legion, being qualified for membership as the son of an ofiicer who
served in the war of the Rebellion.

]\Ir. John was married on Octol)er 20, 1887, to ]\Iaude Thayer, second
daughter of Judge E. H. Thayer, an old settler here, though she was born in
Muscatine. They are the parents of two children, Dorette and Edward, a
student in the Clinton high school.

]\Ir. John is prominent in many circles of Clinton, is a business man of
high order, and one who has deservedly many friends in the city and county.

832 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

WALDA M. GRUMSTRUP.

No wide-awake student of modern conditions can fail to perceive the
industrial problems which threaten us, and to realize that there must soon
be a readjustment of such conditons, or else, if such does not pe-acefully take
place, there will be a violent settlement. Of course, all hope for a peaceful
and gradual adjustment, but the measures necessary to relieve the evil condi-
tions are all more or less socialistic. Government is trending slowly in a social-
istic direction, and many of the old party leaders today are uttering state-
ments which would have branded them as rabid Socialists a few years ago.
Perhaps we shall never see pure socialism, but all parties are now uniting on
schemes socialistic in their nature, and we cannot tell what progress may
bring forth.

Walda j\I. Grumstrup was born in Denmark on July 12, 1869, a son of
Nis and Christena (Everson) Grumstrup. His parents were natives of Den-
mark, and in 1871 the family came to America, first locating in Delaware,
where Nis engaged in railroad work. In 1872 he removed to Chnton, Iowa,
where he was employed one year by C. Lamb & Sons, then was employed in
Curtis Brothers' sash and door factory for about twenty years. In 1893 he
entered the flour and feed business, in which he prospered, and remained in
this until 1908, when he retired. His life has been cjuiet and mostly devoted
to his business and his family. He and his wife are still living. They are
the parents of two sons and three daughters, all living.

Walda Grumstrup was educated in the Clinton common schools, and at
the early age of ten or twelve learned the woodturner's trade, and had charge
of Curtiss Brothers' department of wood turning for about sixteen years.
Then in 1908 he bought one-fourth of the stock of the Anderson Furniture
Company, and since then has been president of that concern. This company
employs about fifty men, and makes extension and library tables and kitchen
cabinets. Their business extends over Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois,
South Dakota, and is spreading to other states. Their trade has had a slow,
steady and healthy growth. Since Mr. Grumstrup has been president he
has added a great deal of improved machinery.

In 1892 Mr. Grumstrup was married to Johanna Johnson, a native of
New Zealand, who received the most of her education in that country, her
parents coming to this country when she was twelve. She was the daughter
of August P. Johnson, a native of Sweden, and Elsie Marrie Geertsen, a
native of Denmark. Mr. and Mrs. Grumstrup are the parents of three chil-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 833

(Iren, Harold, in the class of 1911, Clinton high school; Helga, class of 1912,
and Loretta.

Air. (irunistrup is a Republican in politics, hut has read widch' on scjcial-
ism. and has made a study of socialistic doctrines. He is a member of the
Odd b>llo\vs. and w ill soon ha\e Ijeen a member of that order twenty years.
He is also a member of the Danish Society of ^Mystic Workers. On religious
subjects he is very liberal, and has ne\er affiliated with any church. He
lias thoroughly demonstrated his ability as a business man and a thorough
manager, and has caused his factor}- to prosper during his administration.
Personally he is popular among the citizens of Clinton.

HON. JOHN L. WILSON.

WHienever a resident of Clinton county is asked to name the most promi-
nent farmers of the count}-, there is one name, that of John L. A\'ilson, of the
W^alnut Stock farm, which always comes immediately to mind. Mr. A\'ilson
was born on October 25, 1857, on the farm where he now resides, the son of
Alatthew and Sybbila (Rugh) Wilson, both natives of Pennsylvania, where
they were married. Matthew Wilson was the son of John and Nancy W^ilson.
Jolm A\'ils()n came to America from Ireland with his parents, who settled in
Allegheny county, Pennsyhania, w lien he was eight }-ears old. He spent his
life as a farmer, and died in Allegheny county. In politics he was a strong
Democrat, but ne\er cared to hold office. His religious affiliations were with
the Presbyterian church.

yi. J. Stick, the maternal uncle of Sybbila AA'ilson, was a Lutheran
minister, a nati\-e of Germany, who filled important charges. He was also a
Democrat, and died in Pennsy[\ania. His profession made him widely known
and he was highly respected and had the confidence and respect of the people.
He reared a large family of children.

Matthew Wilson was the second son in a family of three sons and three
daughters. Until he was twenty-two years of age he remained at home, then
engaged in steamboating on the Ohio and lower Mississippi rivers, as a mate.
In these times the ri\-er offered many attractions to a young man of spirit.
W'liile encased on the river Air. Wilsc^n was married and soon left steamboat-
ing to go to a farm in Penns}l\ania. But. seeking greater opportunities, he
came to Chntou county, Iowa, in 1855, and rented a farm for two years. He
brought with him to this countv, his wife and one child, a wagon and team of

(53)

834 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

horses, and four hundred dohars in money. In 1856 he bought eighty acres
which had on it a cheap house, and began to improve the land. He continued
to add to his holdings until he owned three hundred and ninety acres of farm
land and ninety acres of timber land in Clinton county, and five hundred and
twenty acres in Story county, Iowa, with two hundred acres under culti\'a-
tion. He was a hard working man, a good financier and had a good helpmate,
and together they accumulated a large estate. Chnton county was new and
undeveloped when he entered it and he helped the moral and social develop-
ment bv all means in his power, aiding in laying the foundations of good
government. His property was accumulated by general farming and stock
raising, the surplus being very satisfactorily invested in lands. His judgment
and business abilities were much above the average. In politics Matthew
Wilson was an uncompromising Democrat, but he preferred not to hold office.
Having grown up in the Presbyterian faith, he ne\'er departed from it. Wide-
ly known and highly respected, his honor and integrity were never impeached.
On August ij, 1884, he departed this life; his wife had been called on May
17, 1883. She was a devoted member of the Lutheran church. Four chil-
dren were born to their union, of whom the oldest, Alartha, and the youngest,
Benjamin F., died in infancy. Anna M.. the second child, married James
Robb, and they lived for some years on the Story county farm, which was
given to his daughter by ^Ir. AA'ilson. On account of poor health they rented
the farm and moved to Colorado, where they are now living on a fruit farm.
John L. Wilson was reared to farming and stock raising. He attended
the district school, and the Clinton Business College,' graduating from the
latter February 18, 1876. By his father's will he obtained the homestead as
his portion, to w liich h.e has added one hundred and forty acres, making his
total holdings over five hundred acres, among the largest in the county. While
carrying on general farming, he has given his attention most prominently
to the breeding of standard high-grade stock, Percheron horses. Chester White
swine and Polled Durham cattle, all registered. His home place, the Walnut
Stock Farm, is one of the l)est in the state. It is well watered and arranged
for stock and highly improved. It is situated about six and one-half miles
from Clinton, and is well equipped with two large barns and other outbuild-
ings, and a large three-story house, making a very valualjle and desirable prop-
erty. Mr. Wilson is also a stockholder and director in the First National
Bank of Lyons and has many other interests.

Mr. Wilson has always affiliated with the Democratic partv and is a
strong advocate of Democratic principles, being one of the leaders of his party
in the county and state. For many years he has worked in the party harness,

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 835

filling township and local offices, and serving as committeeman on the county
central committee. In 1894 he was elected to the lower house of the General
Assembly of the state of Iowa, held this office during the twenty-fifth and
twenty-sixth sessions of the Assembly and at the expiration of his term was
elected to upper house or Senate for the twenty-seventh to the thirty-third
sessions, inclusive, and has just been elected for four years more, holding the
reco.rd for the long'est term of continuous service in tlie Legislature of any
man in Iowa. His service has been very satisfactor}- to his constituents, even
more so than is con\"enient for ]\Ir. \\'ilson. For a number of }'ears he has
sought to retire from politics, but the people nominate and elect him without
consulting his feehngs, a true case of the office seeking the man. Mr. \\'"ilson,
by his long term of ser\ice and extensive acquaintance in the state capital, is
able to give to his constituents valuable ser\ice, and he has Ijeen a member of
many important committees, in the last session holding the position of chair-
man of the public lands committee, and serving on the committees on ways
and means, appropriations, agriculture, schools, cities and towns, telegraph
and telephones, and highways, a list including many of the most important
committees, while the chairmanship which he held is one of the most respon-
sible gi\en to a member of the minority party.

^Ir. A\'ilson is a consistent member of the Lutheran church. In fraternal
relations he is a Mason of the thirty-second degree, and a member of the
Knights of Pythias and Eastern Star.

John L. ^^'ilson was married on December 15, 1880. to Susie E. Cook,
born in Clinton county. September 25, i860, the daughter of John B. and
Rebecca (Miller) Cook, both natives of Ohio, where they were married. ^Iv.
Cook was a farmer and carpenter, one of the earliest settlers of Clinton county,
who became prominent and well-known. He was a strong Republican, but
ne\er aspired to office. His death occiu'red on December 30, 1906: his widow
now li\es at Lyons, to which cit}' the}- had retired. They were the parents
of eight children: The oldest died in infancy: Martha married Robert Boyd,
who died, leaving one daughter, and ■^he later married A. E. Boynton : George
F. is a farmer; Susie E. is the wife of the subject; Perry R., a traveling sales-
man: \\'illiam, deceased, was a contractor; Anna died at the age of thirteen:
Robert was clerk on a steamboat, and was accidentally drowned.

'Sly. and Mrs. Wilson are the parents of five children : Anna E. died May
2, 1891, aged nine years and se\-en months: Charles was born October 30,
1883; Ollie R. died May 10, 1891, aged .five years and three months, she and
Anna dying of diphtheria: John L.. Jr.. was born November 17, 1887: Clara
V. was born August 26. 1892. The children are at home and assist in carrv'-

836 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

ing on the farm. Afrs. W^iTson is a lady of much refinement and intelHgence
and is an active member of the Episcopal church. ]\Ir. Wilson has truly a
happy domestic life, and has been fortunate in this, as well as in material
success.

TOHX T. BLODT.

Druggists deal very largely in the necessities and conveniences of life.
No other merchants keep so varied a line as they and no others have so much
responsibility, for a mistake in filling a prescription may cost lives, while in
almost any other mercantile business a mistake can only mean the loss of
money. The druggist is the' one merchant who keeps open at almost all
hours; he is the one who is always ready to supply our wants, if it be only to
serve a cooling drink, or to fill a highly important prescription, or to sell tis
some little article of convenience. AA^hen we stop to consider the endless
variety of articles which we purchase from the druggist, we can no longer
wonder that, next to the grocer, the druggist is the most necessary of all
merchants. Anrl the city of Clinton has no better supplied drug store, nor
none where service is more obliging, than that of ]\Ir. Blodt.

John J. Blodt was born in Lyons, now a part of Clinton, Iowa, May 17.
1865. ^^i^ ^^o" o^ Matthias and Elizabeth (Hassler) Blodt. His parents were
born in Baden, Germany, and came to America in about 1850. They first
located in Ohio, but removed to Lyons in 1858, where Mr. Blodt established a
baker's shop. He was a hardworking, industrious man and gave his entire
attention to his trade. He died in 1887. His wife is now living in Clinton.
Six of their eight children are living.

John T- Blodt was educated in the Central school of Lyons and Clinton,
now the Jefferson school. He then spent two years in ]\Iilwaukee College,
?nd one year in ]\It. Calvarv College, in Wisconsin. In 1886 he returned to
Clinton and liegan to work in the drug store of Milo J. John, staying with him
five years. In 1891 he went west, and the next year returned and married.
He v>as employed in different drug stores and for several years had charge of
W. M. Desmond's .store. In 1901 he bought the store at Xo. 118 South Sec-
ond street and in 190:^ built a store of his own at No. 116 South Second
street. Here he is still located and has more than doubled his business since
starting. In politics he is a Democrat. He is a member of the Modern
Woodmen of America, of the Eraternal Order of Eagles, Royal Arcanum and
Knights of Pythias, of which he was for five years chairman of the board of
trustees, and now is secretary.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 837

Mr. Blodt was married in 1892 to Ida L. Bagley. of Clinton, daughter
of George W. and Mary Jane Bagley. old residents of Clinton. To their
union two children ha\e been born, Alarguerite and Harold John.

]\Ir. Blodt is well thought of and highly regarded by those who best
know him. In business he is alert and aggressive and thus has prospered and
has encouraging future prospects. He takes much pride in the appearance
and stocking of his store.

MATZEN & HANSEN.

Herein we mention a firm composed of young and enterprising busi-
ness men, who have been engaged but a short time in their present business,
but in that short time have shown their ecjuipment in the qualities which
make for success and the results of their training in the school of experience,
and they have taken their place in the front rank of Clinton's commercial life.

Frank Joseph Matzen was born in Clinton, Iowa. May 12, 1879, the
son of Peter Matzen, born in Germany, and Anna (Traeger) Matzen, born
in Galena, Illinois, August 22, 1855. Peter Matzen came to America when
a voune man. and for manv vears conducted a retail clothing store in Clin-
ton under the name of Matzen & Bockel Company. Later in life he was
eneraeed in the insurance business, in which he continued until his death, in
188 1. He was a man of strong character and highly respected. He and his
wife were the parents of four children, Frank Joseph, Mrs. Anna Maxheim,
Peter and Mrs. Louise Hansen. The mother died when Frank Joseph was
five years old.

Frank Matzen was educated in the Clinton schools and in 1895 began
working for W. L. Hale, the grocer, and continued with him until he went
out of business, gaining under him much valuable experience. On June 25,
19 TO, he and John C. Hansen bought out the old Hale grocery, one of the
first established in Clinton, and have since been conducting it.

Mr. Matzen was married on December 15, 1905, to Clara E. Hansen,
who was born in Clinton, the daughter of Godber and \\'ipke Hansen.

lohn C. Hansen was born in Clinton, Iowa, December 27, 1870, the
son of Godber Hansen, who was born in Germany in December, 1843, ^"d
Wipke (Tolk) Hansen, born in Germany :\Iarch 7, 1846. Godber Hansen
and his wife came to this country in 1865 or 1866, and were married in 1868
in Clinton, Iowa. In the early eighties Mr. Hansen entered the retail gro-
cery business, and continued in it until 1890. Since that time he has been
engaged as a general contractor. He served the Democratic party as county

838 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

supervisor from 1889 to 1893, and has also been alderman from the first
ward of Clinton. He has been faithful to the interests of the people in his
official capacities, and has gained the esteem of those who know him. John
C. Hansen has two brothers, Alfred and Fred G., and four sisters, Minnie,
Mrs. Clara Matzen, Mrs. Amanda Hagen and Alma.

John C. Hansen attended the Clinton public schools, then for five years
he worked for his father in his grocery store. For three years he was en-
gaged in bridge building, then from 11891 until 1900 was in the Clinton fire
department, following which for ten years he was in the saloon business,
for six years of that time in the Turner Hall. In June, 19 10, he entered with
his brother-in-law, Frank J. Matzen, as partner in a retail grocery at No.
216 South Fourth street. Fraternally, he is a member of the Turner So-
ciety and of the Eagles.

Mr. Hansen was married on April 18, 1894, to Christine Andresen,
who was born in Clinton, the daughter of Julius and Eliza Andresen, early
settlers of Clinton. (See sketch elsewhere of the Andresen family.) They
are the parents of the following children: Alvin, Ethel, Leona, Edna,
Hilma, Edwin, Louis, and Harold, deceased. They are as bright and attrac-
tive a family of young people as one would wish to see.

Mr. ]\Iatzen and Mr. Hansen are courteous and accommodating, ener-
getic and enterprising, and have many friends. They are the proprietors of
a verv neat grocery, in which their goods are well arranged for display, and
show that they thoroughly understand the essentials of their business. They
handle a fresh line of staple and fancy groceries of every kind, and enjoy a
large and constantly increasing patronage.

OLIN E. HILL.

A young man who by careful attention to his work and by thorough
grounding in the ])rinciples of the responsible profession of pharmacist, has
made his place of business one of the best known and most frequented of its
kind in the city, and who has gained for himself a reputation for reliability,
progressiveness and sterling character, — to write of such a man is a pleasing
task.

Olin E. Hill was born in Clinton. Iowa, son of Joseph and Dora S.
(Smith) Hill. His father was born in Massachusetts, his mother in Vermont,
and they came to Iowa in 1863. and located in Clinton, where his father had
charge of the waterworks west of the city for the Chicago & Northwestern

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 839

railroad many years. They were the parents of seven children, of whom
six are living. The mother is living- and the father died in 1896. He lived a
quiet life, and gave his entire attention to his work and his family, in which
he took much pleasure and pride.

Olin Hill received his earlier education in the public schools of Clinton,
and later attended the Chicago College of Pharmacy, from which he gradu-
ated. On January i, 1896. he became a partner of Mr. Ludolph in the drug
business, under the firm name of Ludolph & Hill. This partnership continued
for ten years when Mr. Hill bought Mr. Ludolph out and continues the busi-
ness at the same location, No. 922 South Fourth street, in the same room in
which, as a l)()y. l:e worked ;ind learned the beginnings of the luisiness. and
first found his bent towards his present profession. In politics he is a Repub-
lican and both he and his wife are members of the Methodist church. His
fraternal membership is with the Emulation Lodge of Masons, the Odd Fel-
lows, and the American Lodge of Alodern Woodmen of America.

Mr. Hill .was married on June 2, 1897, to Lula M. Smith, a native of
Clinton, daughter of George S. Smith. No children have been born to them,
but they have adopted one child.

Mr. Hill is much devoted to his business, and is a man whose life and
character speak for themselves of their worth to those who know him, of
whom there are many in Clinton, and many who are glad to consider him their
friend.

HOBART E. MARTIN, M. D.

To the ambitious man of scientific tastes nothing offers a more inviting
profession than medicine. Much as has been accomplished in that realm,
our knowledge is still comparatively vague and brief, and the young man of
medical training, with clear and acute senses and good reasoning powers, is
situated where he has endless opportunities for discoveries which may further
the cause of health, add to human knowledge and bring to him the conscious-
ness of merited achievement.

Hobart E. Martin was born in Lancaster, New Hampshire, March i,
1878. the son of George A. and Addie (Snow) Martin, his father born in New
York, his mother in New Hampshire. His paternal grandparents were Albert
and Carrie Martin, who spent their lives in New York. His maternal grand-
parents were Dr. Louis and Harriet (Hobart) Snow, who resided in New
Hampshire throughout their lives. Harriet Hobart was a sister of the father
of Garrett A. Hobart. who was Vice-President under President McKinley.

840 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

George A. Alartin was a member of the Vermont Volunteer Infantry
and served throughout the war, being for a while in the hospital corps. After
the war he went to New Hampshire and was married. He lived there until
1895. when he moved to Boone, Iowa, where he died in 1897. All his life he
was a practicing physician, a close student who gave all his time to his pro-
fessional work. His wife died in 1888. They were the parents of two sons,
both of whom are physicians, and two daughters.

Hobart E. ]\Iartin was educated at Hyde Park, Massachusetts, and
graduated in medicine from the Iowa State University in 1901. He practiced
in Elvira, Iowa, for six years, and then moved to Lyons, where he has since
engaged in practice. In politics he is a Republican. He is a member of the
Iowa State and of the Rock River Medical Societies, and in his fraternal re-
lations is an Elk. His wife and children are members of the Episcopal church.

Mr. Martin was married on November 28, 1900, to Bertha Phillips, a
native of West Liberty, Iowa, and daugliter of N. M. and Mary Philips, who
came here from Virginia at an early time. To their union three bright and
interesting children have been born, Hobart E.. Jr., Muriel and Vivian.

Doctor Martin is a young man of great promise. He is enjoying a com-
paratively large practice and has been successful. He possesses the qualities
which go to make up the reliable practitioner and has the confidence of the
people. Personally he is very popular and we are glad to record the history
of such as he.

HENRY WARNING.

It would l)e interesting to trace the evolution of furniture from the
stones and blocks of wood used as seats in the earliest times and the heaps
of boughs used as beds, to the light and comfortable chairs and the iron-
frame beds used today. Perhaps it would be more interesting to trace the
various styles of furniture which have prevailed throughout the different
periods, some of them ugly and cumbersome, some of them triumphs of
artistic merit. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch has long been
connected with different aspects of the furniture business, and is now con-
cerned in a factorv which is one of' the important enterprises of Clinton, and
which turns out a line of furniture well designed, with special attention
both to artistic ap]^earance and to durability in ser\-ice, in l^oth of which the
product of his factory excels.

Henry Warning was born in Stratford, Canada, December 18, 1861,

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 84 1

the son of Fred and Emily (Kreich) Warning. His parents ^\ ere natives
of Germany and came t(^ Canada single, at the respective ages of seventeen
and fourteen, and settled in Montreal. Fred Warning was a carpenter hy
trade, and in 1864 moved to Chicago and was there engaged in contracting
until his death. He gave his attention almost entirely to his trade and Ids
familv and was a much respected man. He died November i. 1907. and his
wife on March 14, 1893. They were the parents of seven children, five of
whom are still living.

Henrv Warning attended the common schools of the city of Chicago.
He learned the woodturner's trade, and followed that from 1877 until 1906.
He lived in Chicago until 1897, when he mo^'ed to Lyons, Iowa, and here
followed the same trade with M. A. Disbrow & Company. In 1906, in com-
pan}' with the two Messrs. Grumstrup, mentioned in this work, lie bought
out the Anderson Furniture Company and they reorganized it and ha\e since
carried it on. In politics. IMr. AA'arning is generally a Republican, but some-
times ^'otes independently. His family are members of the ]\Iethodist church,
Init he is lil)eral in religious \-iews. Fraternally, he is a member of the Odd
Fellows and of the Modern Woodmen.

]\Ir. A\"arning was married on May 25, 1887, to Theresa Weiss, daughter
of John and Mary Weiss, old settlers of Saginaw, Michigan. They are the
parents of four children : Edna, deceased ; Gertrude, a teacher in the public
schools of Clinton county; Caroline, a student of the Lyons high school, in
her junior year ; and Willard, a jiupil in the common schools.

Mr. AA'arning is thoroughly familiar with the furniture business, having
learned all liranches of the industry thoroughly, and is a competent business
man. He has many friends in the city and is highly respected.

REUBEN CHARLES HART.

One of the younger citizens of Clinton, who has stamped the impress of
his strong individuality upon the minds of the people of Clinton county in
such a manner as to render him one of the conspicuous characters of this
locality, is Reuben Charles Hart, the well known and able civil engineer. He
was born on June 21, 1870, at Lyons, Iowa, and is the son of John S. and
Harriet (Clark) Hart. The father is the son of Philip and Mary (Mc-
Mahon) Hart. Philip Hart came to this countiy from Ireland where he was
born in 1811, reaching Canada in 1832. He was a Democrat and a devout
Roman Catholic.

842 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

John S. Hart came to Lyons, Iowa, in 1866, later moving to Clinton
where he was in business for many years. He is a Democrat and thirty-
second-degree Alason.

Reuben C. Hart was educated in the schools of Clinton, and, entering the
service of the Chicago & Northwestern railroad, obtained, while in the civil
engineering department of this road, a practical education in civil engineering,
which profession he now follows. After ten years in railroad work, he
entered the service of the city of Clinton in March, 1902, as assistant city
engineer. In November, 1902, he was elected to the office of county sur-
veyor and in March, 1908, to that of city engineer of Clinton, both of which
offices he still holds. He is an associate member of the American Society of
Civil Engineers, charter member of the American Society of Engineering
Contractors and a member of the Iowa Engineering Society. As a public
servant his course has been marked by fidelity to duty and a high grade of
ability. Politically, he is a Democrat, and is prominent in political affairs,
also in lodge circles, being a thirty-second-degree Mason.

^Ir. Hart was married in 1895 to Martha Connor, of Clinton, and they
have resided in this citv since that time.

ERIC C. MATSON.

That America still means "opportunity" is evidenced in the case of Mr.
Matson, still a comparatively young man, who came to this country at the
age of twenty with no fortune save his own clear brain and strong body and
the inheritance of the good Danish blood, which flows in the veins of a race
of powerful men of marked capabilities and endowments. With nothing
save this equipment, he has brought himself through various vicissitudes of
fortune to the position of one of the prosperous business men of his city,
owing his advancement to the aid of no one and being truly self-made.

Eric C. Matson was born in Denmark on September 2, i860. He re-
ceived his education in the excellent schools of his native country and, feel-
ing that opportunities would be greater in the new world, he came to Amer-
ica in 1880. not stopping until he reached Clinton, Iowa, which has since
been his home. He was a general workingman up until 1895, '^vhen he bought
a line of oil tank wagons from Ham Blackledge, an old settler, and for fif-
teen vears was engaged in this business, in which he accumulated quite a
little property. In 19 10 ]\Ir. Alatson purchased the North\vestern Steam
Laundrv, and in the short time that he has been its owner has thoroughly

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 843

demonstrated his capacity in its management. This is a steam laundry,
with full modern equipment, capable of doing the best of work and with
the best of facilities for quick and complete service. Mr. Alatson believes in
satisfying his patrons, and by doing so is building up an increased business,
every day gaining in amount. In politics Mr. Matson is independent, vot-
ing for the man whom he thinks will best fill the office and not for a party
emblem. Fraternally, he is a member of the Danish Brotherhood.

In April, 1885, Eric C. Matson was married to Hansina Anderson, of
Clinton, wlio was born in Germany. To this union five children have been
born, namely : Arthur, now of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma ; Walter, of
Clinton; Helen and Frances, at home; and Olga, who is the bookkeeper in
her father's laundry.

Mr. Matson is a business man of recognized integrity and keen acu-
men. Beginning life with nothing, in a foreign countiy, he has by his own
efforts gained a competence and lifted himself to a position of honor and
influence, commanding the respect of his neighbors. He has many friends,
who are glad because of his success.

JERRY WOLFE, V. S.

In his chosen field of endeavor Dr. Jerry Wolfe, of Grand Alound,
Orange township, Clinton county, has achieved success such as few attain
and his present eminent standing among the veterinary surgeons of eastern
Iowa is duly recognized and appreciated not only in his own town and town-
ship, ])ut throughout the county and in adjoining localities, and as a citizen
he easily ranks with the most progressive and influential in his vicinity. His
course has ever been above suspicion, and those favored with an intimate ac-
quaintance with him are profuse in their praise of his many virtues and up-
right character.

Doctor Wolfe is a native of Liberty township, Clinton county, Iowa,
having been born here on August 16, 1875, and he is the son of James B.
and Anna (O'Connor) Wolfe, and a nephew of Judge P. B. Wolfe, well
known in judicial circles of Clinton county. The father was born in Ire-
land, and the mother's birth occurred in Jackson county, Iowa.

The Doctor was reared on a farm, where he worked in the fields dur-
ing the summer months and attended the public schools in the wintertime at
Lost Nation. Later he spent three years at the Iowa State Teachers' Col-
lege, and one year at the State Agricultural College at Ames, Iowa. He ap-

844 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

plied himself very closely to his text-books and made rapid progress, receiv-
ing a high education along general lines. Deciding to turn his attention to
veterinary surgery, he took the course at the Chicago Veterinary College,
from which he was graduated with honor in 1905. Soon afterwards he re-
turned to Clinton county and located at Grand Mound, where he has since
remained, having been very successful from the first, and he has built up a
large and e^'er-growing patronage, his services being in great demand. He
has lieen very successful in his chosen calling and he keeps abreast of the
times in all discoveries, research work and whatever pertains to veterinary
surgery.

While in college Doctor Wolfe was the champion foot racer of the
state of Iowa, and he has thirty-seven gold medals and seventeen silver
medals. He became widely known as a foot racer and athlete.

The Doctor is chief of the fire department at Grand Mound, and he has
built up a very proficient and reliable force of fire fighters here. Politically,
he is a Democrat, and he and his family are members of the Catholic church
and faithful in their attendance and support of the same.

On February 11, 1909, the marriage of Doctor W^olfe and Mary Wiley,
of Chicago, was solemnized. She is a native of Horton, Kansas, having
been born on August 23, 1887. She is a lady of education and culture and
the representative of an excellent and highly honored family. To the Doc-
tor and wife one child, James Wiley, has been born, his birth being recorded
as April 7, 1910. Doctor Wolfe is a life member of the Chicago Veterinary
Societv.

CLINTON BUSINESS COLLEGE.

No history of Clinton county, Iowa, would l3e complete were there fail-
ure to give a conspicuous review^ of the Clinton Business College, which is
under the able management of B. J. Heflin, whose every effort to advance the
cause of education here has been promptly recognized and appreciated, the
business i)ul)lic co-operating to make this one of the most thorough and pop-
ular institutions of its kind in the state. During the past years of its organ-
ization as an institution established to promote the highest principles of busi-
ness education, it has based its claim upon merit alone. The success achieved
has been accomplished by devotion to the individual wants and requirements of
those who have come within its doors seeking the practical things of life, and
by strict fidelity to all students. The watchword of the institution has ever
been "Progress," and no legitimate effort has ever been spared to promote the

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. . 845

interest of its patrons and the advancement of the pupils. Many years of
faithful Avork have earned for this school the reputation it now enjoys.
Thousands of dollars invested in the furnishing of appliances for the comfort
and advancement of its students, and the selection of teachers who exactly fill
their places, is an indelible stamp upon its loyalty.

The Clinton Business College is fortunately located in one of the best
cities in the state, which offers special advantages to those contemplating tak-
ing a course in a first-class business college, and at the same time prospecting
for a more permanent position or paying business than they now have. The
reason for this is, Clinton has more enterprise, better natural facilities, more
railroads, and more money invested in manufacturing enterprises, and is en-
joying better growth than any other city in the state. This college is located
at Xos. 101-103 Fifth avenue, covering over eight thousand five hundred
scjuare feet of floor space, situated on the second floor of the Shoecraft block,
a central location in a healthful part of the city, on two street car lines, near
the railroad depots, and only one block from the principal hotels. The rooms
are nicely furnished, well lighted and ventilated, heated by steam and fitted
with gas and electric lights, pleasant and easy of access. School is in session
throughout the year except on legal holidays and a short vacation in August.
The work in this school is so arranged that pupils may enter at any time and
the}' are placed in suitable classes. The year's work is not divided into terms,
and examinations are held at the end of each month. A valuable course of
lectures is given during the school year, by the business and professional
men of the city. This school has alwa}'s striven for neatness, accuracv and
speed, and superior results haAC l^een reached. The reasonable but firm disci-
pline which daily surrounds the student in this school tends to establish habits
that ])usiness men will commend. Every detail of actual ofiice work that can
be incorporated into the work of a school has been added here, the students
receiving the most practical kind of training, so, practically, nothing is left
to be le'irned l)y the pupil when he enters the office of his employer. The
touch typewriting system and the Chartier system of shorthand, and all of
the most advanced, yet most practical and simplest, methods and systems are
used in this school, hence rapid progress is made and the very liest results ob-
tained.

The course of study is interesting and made most attractiA-e to the student,
being thorough and standard. It includes : Business course, embracing book-
keeping, arithmetic, commercial law, penmanship, business correspondence,
grammar, rapid calculation, business practice, spelling; shorthand course, em-
bracing shorthand, typewriting, grammar, l)usiness correspondence, spelling.

846 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

arithmetic, rapid calculation, model office work; penmanship ; combined course,
embracing bookkeeping, business practice, arithmetic, commercial law, pen-
manship, business correspondence, grammar, spelling, rapid calculation, short-
hand, typewriting and model office work.

Air. Heflin is aided by a ven' carefully selected and capable corps of in-
structors, the best in their departments that can be obtained, and everything is
under a superb system and remarkaljle results are quickly obtained. The city
of Clinton is justly proud of such an institution which would be a credit to any
community, in fact, its value to the industrial life of the locality could not be
estimated.

It is a worthv privilege to be able here to acquaint the citizens of Clinton
county with a brief personal biography of the gentleman who has labored to
such goodlv ends in building up this meritorious institution, and the closing
paragraphs of this review will have to do with President Benjamin Heflin,
who was born December 23. 1869, at Galesburg, Illinois. He is the son of
Alexander and Matilda (Brown) Heflin, the father born Alay 15, 1839, and
the mother on April 4, 1844. both natives of Galesburg, Illinois. The elder
Heflin devoted his life to agricultural pursuits, spending his life on a farm of
about three hundred acres, which was secured from the government by the
paternal grandfather, Reuben Heflin, who came to Illinois at a very early
date, buving the land at one dollar and twenty-five cents per acre. The same
is now very valuable. Reuben Heflin set out a five-acre orchard, and it was
not an uncommon sight to see the orchard surrounded liy moving wagons on
their way west, for the Heflin farm was an excellent place to camp over
night.

Alexander Heflin and wife are still living, now being retired, having
moved from their farm into a cozy home in Galesburg, Illinois. Seven children
were born to them.

Benjamin J. Heflin, of this review, received his early education in the
public schools of Galesburg, subsequently attending the Dixon Normal School,
from which he was graduated. He was also graduated from the Iowa Com-
mercial College at Davenport, Iowa. Thus being well equipped for his life
work, he came to Clinton. Iowa, in 1892, and became president of the Clinton
Business College and has very faithfully discharged the duties of the same to
the present time, this institution having had a steady growth under his judi-
cious management.

]\Ir. Heflin was married on December 27, 1897, to Gertrude Garrett, and
this union has been blessed by the 1)irt]i of two children, Benjamin Harrison
and \\'illiam fackson.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 847

WILLIS E. KEITH, M. D.

There is no class to whom greater gratitude is due from the world at
large than the self-sacrificing, sympathetic, noble-minded men whose life-
^vork is the alleviation of suffering and the ministering of comfort to the
afflicted, to the end that the span of human existence may be lengthened and
a greater degree of satisfaction enjoyed during the remainder of their sojourn.
There is no standard by which their beneficent influence can be measured;
their heli)fu]ness is lin:ited onlv l;y the extent of their knowledge and
skill, while tlieir power goes hand in hand with the wonderful laws of nature
that spring from the very source of life itself. Among the physicians and
surgeons of Clinton county, who. while yet young in years, have risen to
eminence in their chosen calling and to whom the future fields of endeavor
beckon with great ])romise is Dr. Willis E. Keith, of Clinton, whose career
has been that of a broad-minded, conscientious worker in the sphere to which
his life and energies have been devoted and whose profound knowledge has
won for him a leading place among the distinguished medical men of east-
ern Iowa.

Doctor Keith was born in Clinton. Iowa, on December 14, 1882, and is
the son of Charles S. and Elizabeth f Guiney) Keith, living at No. 627 Fourth
avenue. Clinton. He was educated in the Clinton high school and grew to
maturity in his home city, spending his youth in an uneventful manner.
Early in life he evinced a laudable ambition to take up the study of medicine
and he began bending every effort in that direction. He entered the medical
department of the College of Physicians and Surgeons in the University of
Illinois, and there made a brilliant record for scholarship, being graduated
from that institution in 1907. He did hospital \vork in Chicago for nine
months in order to further equip himself for his life work. Thus well pre-
pared to engage in general practice, he returned to Clinton county and
opened an office at Grand Mound, where he remained one year, being very
successful from the first and soon taking a high rank among the medical men
of this locality. In 1908 he went to Lost Nation, where he enjoyed a still
larger patronage. He recently went to Europe, taking post-graduate work
on eye. ear, throat and nose in London, Vienna and Berlin; he also took post-
graduate work in New York and Philadelphia, and he will no (loul)t
make great strides as a surgeon and general practitioner, having had the
very best training which the world offers in medical science, and knowing
his keen powers of observation and acute faculties for assimilation, he will
no doubt make the most of every advantage. On his return from Europe
Doctor Keith located in Clinton, where he is now engaged in th.e active practice
of his profession.

848 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

The Doctor has remained unmarried. In politics he is a Republican,
and in 1910 he was a candidate for county coroner, his candidacy being
looked upon with much favor by all, irrespective of party alignment, for all
recognized his ability to serve exceptionally well in this important office.
He is a member of the Nu Sigma Nu medical fraternity, and fraternally he
belongs to the Masonic Blue Lodge and Order of the Eastern Star at Lost
Nation, also the DeMolay Consistory at Clinton.

ALF. E. CORRELL.

The subject of this sketch, a leading farmer of Berlin township and a
representative of two old and highly esteemed famihes of eastern Iowa, is a
native of Clinton county and dates his birth from February 12, 1866. His
paternal ancestors were among the early settlers of Cumberland county,
Pennsylvania, where his grandfather, Jacob Correll. son of Abraham and
Anna Correll, was born in the year 181 5. Jacob Correll went to Wayne
county, Ohio, in 1836, and was there married on March 19. 1839, to Cath-
erine Floyd, whose birth occurred in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, Au-
gust II, 1814. After living in Ohio until 1854, this couple moved to Clinton
county, Iowa, and took up a tract of government land in Berlin township,
which Air. Correll' improved and converted into a fine farm and on which
the two spent the remainder of their lives. Among the children of Jacob and
Catherine Correll was a son Abram. who was born in Wayne county, Ohio,
July 25, 1840, and who married in his young manhood Alma Simpson, who
was born March 10, 1841, in Onondaga county. New York, having been a
daughter of John and Mary (Walrod) Simpson, also natives of the Empire
state. In the fall of 1847 the Simpsons moved to St. Clair county, ^Michigan,
where they lived the ensuing three years, then settled in Clinton county,
Iowa, where they spent the remainder of their lives, Mrs. Simpson dving in
1863. her husl)an(l three years later. Jacob and Mary (Brant) Walrod,
parents of Mrs. John Simpson, moved from Cherry A^alley, New York, to
Onondaga county, that state, in a very early day, being accompanied Iw the
former's aged mother and three brothers, and were among the early pioneers
of the locality in which they settled. Mrs. \\'alro(l departed this life aged
tliirty-seven years, and about 1845 James, the ekler son. moved to Clinton
county, Iowa, where he figured (|uite conspicuously during the pioneer period.

Abram Correll moved with his parents to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1854,

MR. AND MRS. ALF. E. CORRELL

THE N'EV/ WRK

PUBLIC LIBllARY

ASTOR, LENOX, AND

TILDT^N FOUNDATIONS

R L

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 849

and the t\)ll()\ving year located in Berlin township, where the Simpson family
had previously settled. The marriage of Abram Correll and Alma Simpson,
referred to abo\e. was solemnized in 1862. two years after which he bought
the farm of eightv acres now owned by his son, the subject of this sketch,
and in duo time became one of the leading agriculturists and representative
citizens of the township. He served in various official capacities, including
two and one-half years as county supervisor, sex'eral terms as township
trustee, and took an active part in pul)lic affairs, having l)een a local leader
of considerable importance in the community. He reared a famil}- of seven
children, five of whom are living, and ched on Februar}- 19, 1909, his faithful
wife and companion departing this life on the 29th of March ensuing. Daniel
and Samuel Correll, brothers of Abram, serA-ed with distinction in the late
Civil war. and Horace Simpson, a brother of ]\Irs. Correll, was a soldier also
and earned an honorable record for bravery during the Rebellion.

The early life of Alf. E. Correll was about the same as that of the
majority of lads reared in the rural districts, having Ijeen dixided Ijetween
labor in the fields during the spring and summer seasons, and in the district
schools during the winter m.gnths. Amid the bracing air of the countr}' and
under the wholesome influence of his excellent parents, he grew up with a
proper appreciation of life and its responsibilities, and after the death of his
father he bought two hundred acres of the home farm and applied his en-
ergies to agriculture and stock raising. Since then his progress has l)een
continuous and eminently satisfactory and today he ranks among the leading-
farmers of his township and county, besides gaining a wide reputation for
his success as a breeder and raiser of stock, making high-grade cattle and hogs
his specialties.

]\lr. Correll is a Republican, and while zealous in upholding the princi-
ples of his party, he can hardly be called a politician, much less an aspirant
for puldic preferment. However, he has ser\-ed his township one term as
clerk and could have any office w ithin the gift of the people did he see fit to
accept such honors. He keeps abreast of the times on the great questions
concerning which pul)lic sentiment is dixided and, l)eing a reader and close
obser\'er, he has broad and lilieral \'iews of men and affairs, which he ex-
presses freely and fearlessly when it seems necessary to do so. Fraternally,
he is an infiuential member of the Odd Fellows and Pythian orders and in his
relations with his fellow-men endeavors to exemplify the beautiful and sub-
lime principles upon which these organizations are leased. Personally, he is
genial and companionable, the soul of honor in all his dealings, and his
character and integrity ha\e been above the breath of suspicion.

(54)

850 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

On Janiiarv 2^, ^^93,' '^^'^s solemnized the marriage of ^Ir. Correll and
Fannie Cortright, of Page connty. Iowa, whose parents. Joseph and Eliza-
beth Jane (Bnrket) Cortright. are among the well-known and highly es-
teemed members of the commnnit}' in which they live. ]\Ir. Cortright is a
native of Pennsylvania, his wife having been born and reared near Dixon,
Illinois. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Correll is without issue, neverthe-
less thev are greatly interested in young people, and have made themselves
quite popular among the juveniles of their neighborhood.

^[r. Cortright. father of ]\Irs. Correll. served with great distinction
through the entire Civil war, as did two of liis brothers. The same should
be said of a brother of Airs. Correll's mother, he having also served the en-
tire duration of the Civil war.

\ATLLTAAI AA^HITE.

In Lincoln township. Clinton county, are to be found many farmers who
seem to have a tendency to specialize along some line that strikes their fancy;
whether this plan is a wise one or not is a debatable Cjuestion, some maintain-
ing that when such a line of procedure is adhered to that other as equally im-
portant phases of farm work are neglected and loss thereby incurred. One
of the agriculturists of Lincoln townsln'p who has made a success of general
farming, in developing many phases of his vocation, is William AA'hite. He is
a native of this township, having been l)orn here on November 18, 1859, and
he is the son of James and Keziah (Dixon) \\'hite ; they were born in Derby,
Derbyshire. England, and Clearfield. Clearfield county. Pennsylvania, respect-
ively. The father came to America in 1844 and located in Pittsburg. Hav-
ing' heard of the new country onening up west of the Alississippi ri^'er. in
1852, he came west in true pioneer fashion, to Davenport, Iowa, where he
spent a year. then, in the spring of 1853. ^''^ walked to Clinton county, moving
to the place on which John Dixon now li\'es. He remained there one year,
then lie moved to a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which he had pre-
viously purchased, and which he broke and improved. In the fall of 1859
he began erecting large and substantial buildings on his place, and he became
one of the leading general farmers and stock raisers of that community. His
death occurred on July 13. 1900. his widow having survived until April 21,
1905. They were the parents of seven children, six of whom are li\'ing.

James \\diite. the father, worked seven years on a farm near Pittsburg.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 85 1

Pennsylvaiiia, and two years in the mines there, and he married while living
in Pennsylvania. He took considerable interest in local political affairs and
held a number of township offices, such as trustee, school director, treasurer
of the school board, etc. He was instrumental in securing the separation of
this township from Clinton.

William White was educated in the common schools of Lincoln town-
ship, and he was reared on the farm which he worked upon when a mere lad
and he has made farming his vocation and has. been very successful. When
his father died he already owned a half section, so he sold the old place and
kept the one he had. Besides general farming, he pays particular attention
to raising, feeding and marketing cattle and hogs, no small part of his income
being derived from this source. However, he is now living in practical re-
tirement, having recently purchased a home in Clinton \vhere he now resides.
He is independent in politics. He has been a deleg'ate to state conventions
and has frequently held local offices. He belongs to the Modern Woodmen of
America, and in religious matters he is a Presbyterian and a liberal supporter
of the local church. In fact, he has always been found on the right side of
all questions.

Mr. White was married on Jnne 15. 1885, to Mina Ayou, a native of
Lyons, Iowa, and the daughter of Joseph and Jennie Ayou, old settlers, who
came here from Canada alwut 1855. Mr. Ayou was a soldier in the Civil war.
He is still living and is a highly respected citizen of this county. To Mr. and
Mrs. White three children have been born, namely: James. Ruth, the wife of
Herbert Paul, and Kittie.

JAMES PETERSON.

A well known business man in Clinton is James Peterson, a man who is
always readv to defend the soundness of his principles and opinions on the
questions of the dav. a man who is popular \\ith the people of his adopted city,
and who has been found ready at all times to encourage and aid all laudable
measures and enterprises for the general good. By a life consistent in motive
and because of his manv fine qualities, he has earned the sincere regard of all
who know him.

Mr. Peterson was born in Denmark, October 20, 1853, ^"'^ '^ the son
of Henrv and Marv K. Peterson, both also born in Denmark. The father
was a noted landscape gardener, and he served in this capacity for a period
of fortv-one ^'ears for one minister and an account of his life and work as a

852 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

gardener has been written by the government. He is now seventy-eight years
old and is still active. His wife died several years ago and their only child
is the subject of this sketch.

James Peterson was educated in the schools of Denmark and when six-
teen years of age he came to America and located in Shibula. Iowa. After
remaining there a short time, he came to Clinton in 1872 and entered the
lumber establishment of C. Lamb & Sons, and remained in their employ for
a period of nineteen years, being still interested in that business. He estab-
lished a small box factory at the intersection of Franklin avenue and the
Northwestern tracks, employing fifteen or twenty hands, and finally it in-
creased in magnitude until one hundred hands were employed.

From 1892 to 1896 Mr. Peterson and Mr. Bell formed a partnership and
in 1896 the company was incorporated with ]\Ir. Peterson as president and
treasurer, Mr. Bell as secretary, and Mr. Matthews as vice-president. The
products of this factory went principally to Iowa, Illinois and Nebraska.
They made all kinds of wooden boxes and enjoyed a large and increasing pat-
ronage until they closed the factory and quit the business on May i, 1910.
At that time Mr. Peterson became interested in the Fish Brothers Wagon
Works, the officers of the same being George M. Curtis, president; H. W.
Seaman, vice-president; C. B. Mills, treasurer; F. B. \\'att, secretary. A
large business is carried on here and an excellent class of work turned out.

Politically, Air. Peterson is a Republican and he has long taken more or
less interest in local political affairs. He very alily and faithfully discharged
the duties of mayor of Clinton for one term. He entered the city council in
1900 and ser\-e(l four years from the fifth ward. He was also a member of
the school board for three successive terms, or a period of nine years, from
1894 to 1903. He has done much for the general good of the city and has
always been found on the right side of all questions looking to the betterment
of local conditions. Mr. Peterson belongs to the Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks and the Wapsipinicon Club.

Mr. Peterson was married on December 13, 1873. to Catherine M. Smith,
a native of Denmark, and this union has resulted in the birth of three sons and
one daughter, namely: John C. deceased; Albert, who is operating a box
factoiy at Ottumwa, Iowa; Minnie B., living at home; James C, also living
at home.

AFr. Peterson has been successful in business and is deserving of a great
deal of credit for what he has accomplished, considering the fact that he
started in life practically empty handed and has not had the assistance of any
one. He was one of the organizers of the .American A\'ire Cloth Companv.

CLIXTOX COUXTV. IOWA. 853

and he served as its president for two years, and is now secretaiw of the same.
He is vice-president of the Land Timber Company, whose holdings are in
Oregon, and he is president of the Chnton Timber Company, whose holdings
are in the state of \\'ashington.

EDWARD M. KEHOE.

Individual enterprise, which is so justly the boast of the American peo-
ple, is strikingly exhibited in the career of the gentleman whose name fomis
the caption of this sketch, for he has fought his own way onward and upward
from none too favorable environment to a i)osition of prominence in the busi-
ness and social world of Clinton. Being a man of indomitable energy and
unwilling to be subdued by the usual re\'erses of life, he has removed one by
one the obstacles in his pathway and is eminently deserving of the success he
has achieved and the popularity which is today his.

Air. Kehoe is a nati^•e of the city of Clinton, having been born here on
September 2, 1870, and he is the son of an excellent family, Thomas and
Margaret (Foley) Kehoe. The father was born in 1820 in Ireland and there
grew to maturity and was educated. He emigrated to America in 1855 and
settled at Alexander, Virginia, where he conducted a mercantile business and
became an influential citizen. He desired to cast his lot in a new and more
enterprising country, and accordingly came \\'est in 18^)0 and located at Clin-
ton, Iowa. He worked as a foreman in a grain elexator for some time and
afterwards owned and operated a stone quarr\- in Lyons. He became well
established here and he lived to an achanced age, dying in 1903. He was a
member of the Catholic church and very faithful in his allegiance to the same.
while, politically, he was a Democrat. He was a man of intelligence, broad-
minded and of high character, and was held in high esteem for his clean prin-
ciples and his generous impulses. Before leaving Ireland he was married to
IMargaret Foley, who was born in 1823. and she proved to be a most faithful
helpmeet, and was a good woman, kind and gentle to all. Her death oc-
curred in IQ05. This union resulted in the 1)irth of seven children, three of
whom are living, namely: John, of Omaha, Nebraska; ]\Iary E., wife of E.
Keating, of Clinton: Edward 'SI., of this review.

The subject received a good common school education and during his
earlv life worked on the river and in a stone quarry. He was always a hard
worker, and bv economv saxed his money until he had a start. In 1903 he

854 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

piircliased the Hotel Columbia in Clinton, a popular and well managed house,
which is neatly kept and whose service is the best. It has thirty rooms, well
furnished, and guests here receive the utmost consideration, everything being
done for their comfort and convenience, consequently the house is well known
and popular with the traveling public, Mr. Kehoe being a genial, obliging and
generous host who understands well every detail of managing a modern hotel.
In 1905 he started the Brunswick billiard parlor and cigar store, which has
proven to be a very popular gathering place for the young men about town
and is very extensi\-ely patronized, as is also the Brunswick Mission billiard
parlor and cigar store, which he opened in 1910, in Fulton, Illinois.

Mr. Kehoe is known to the local sporting world, being vice-president of
the local club of the Central Base Ball Association which he manages in a
verv able and worthy manner, and he assisted in the organization of the North-
ern Association in 1909, of which he was elected vice-president in 1910. He
is independent in politics, preferring to vote for the best man rather than the
party. He was reared in the Catholic faith, from which he has never de-
parted. Fraternally he belongs to the Kniglits of Columlius and the Fraternal
Order of Eagles. Mr. Kehoe will open a new hotel in Clinton May i, 191 1,
to be known as The Kehoe, a European hotel, Avith hot and cold Water in
fifty-one rooms, being located at Seventh avenue and Second street. It will
have a restaurant and cafe in connection, also pool and l^illiard room and cigar
stand.

WILLIAM DURFEE EATON.

Fossil )ly no man has l)een more closely identified with the interests of
Lyons during the past fifty years than ^^'illiam D. Eaton, who has during that
time l^een connected with newspaper work there, forty-nine years as proprietor
aufl part jiroprietor of the Mirror, a record seldom equalled in length of serv-
ice in a similar capacity. Throughout this time he has watched the changing
fortunes of his city, has stood unswervingly for what he believed to be her
best interests, and has always been independent in his views and actions,
truckling to no man. Init following his best judgment.

William Durfee Eaton was born March i, 1(834, at Colt's Station, Erie
county, Pennsylvania, the son of Ebenezer ancl Eunice fShattuck) Eaton.
His father was the son of Ebenezer Eaton, of English ancestry, and was born
in New Hampshire, in March. 1800. A\'hen he Avas Init three weeks old his
mother and father died and he was adopted by ]\lr. and Mrs. Addison, who

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 855

had jnst lost their first born, and with them he remained nntil his marriage.
He first attended school in New Hampshire, later in New York, the Addisons
moving to Cattarangus county, New York, later to Jamestown, then in i'8i2
to Colt's Station, Pennsylvania, within ten miles of Lake Erie.

Ebenezer Eaton was married at Colt's Station to Eunice Shattuck, daugh-
ter of Sewell Shattuck, of Scotch descent. She was born in Vermont in 1807.
Their married life was spent near Colt's Station with the exception of two or
three years spent in Iowa, to which state they removed in 1868, but later re-
turned to Pennsylvania, where Mrs. Eaton died in 1872, and Mr. Eaton in
1874. Mr. Eaton was by occupation a farmer, living seven miles from the
village, and was a man of such a nature that he was greatly respected by those
who knew him. In politics he was earlier a Whig, and later a Republican.
His wife and her parents were Methodists.

]\Ir. and Mrs. Ebenezer Eaton were the parents of eleven children, two
of whom died in infancy. Those growing to maturity were : Elizabeth, who
married Luther Jones, of Erie county, Pennsylvania, and died in 1851 ;
Clarinda, w'ho married Rev. Lester Perkins, and lives in Des Moines, her hus-
band dying in February. 1911 ; Maria, now Mrs. Conrad Ewer, and living
in Corry, Pennsylvania; Charles A., of Erie county, Pennsylvania; W. D. ;
Julia, widow of Ambrose Powers, living at Afton, Iowa; W'ilber, of Des
Moines ; Matilda, married to Edward A. Nattinger at Lyons, Io\va, died at
Ottawa, Illinois, in 1907; Perham S., of Lyons, with his brother, W. D., in
the Mirror office.

\\'. D. Eaton attended the common schools until sixteen, and then entered
the office of the Erie Chronicle as apprentice. Three vears later he went to
Cleveland, Ohio, and worked at his trade there three and one-half vears. In
t^e fall of 18-6 he came to W'elister Citv. Iowa, remained (hiring the winter,
then in the spring of 1857 went to Kossuth county, and pre-empted a quarter
section of public land, remaining there three years. In the spring of i860
Mr. Eaton went into a printing office in Des Moines, in ]\Iarch of the same
year came to Lyons, Avorked a year and a half in the Advocate ofifice, then
entered into partnership witli T. R. Beers in the Lyons Mirror. This partner-
ship continued twenty-six years until ]\Ir. Beers' death in 1888, and since Mr.
Eaton has been in charge of the paper and is now sole proprietor. This
paper, which had been a Prohibition paper under a former editor, was changed
by Mr. Eaton to a license paper. It is now^ a regular Republican weekly
paper, has a wide circulation in the county, and has a reputation for voicing
the beliefs of its editor without fear of risking the displeasure of any one.
People speak of the Mirror as clean and straight throughout.

856 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

A\'. D. Eaton was married in Kossuth county, Iowa, December 21, 1857,
to X. H. Kellogg, born December 21, 1840, the daughter of Henry and
Nancy L. Kellogg, who were originally of New York, but came from Ohio to
Iowa. Tvlr. Kellogg was a man of versatile genius, was at one time a Univers-
alist preacher, and at one period a druggist. His family consisted of three
children, his two sons, Elijah, and Dr. Charles F., of Clinton, both serving
in the Union army. To ]\Ir. and Mrs. Eaton were born three children. Enell,
born in Kossuth county in 1858, died in Lyons in the spring of 1861 ; May,
who was born in Lyons in i860, is now engaged at Stanley Hall Girls' School
of Minneapolis; ^^"illiam L., who was born in i''866, died in 1880. Mrs.
Eaton, who was a member of the Congregational church, died in 1869.

Mr. Eaton was married a second time in May, 1873, to Mrs. Mary E.
Buell. who was born in Lyons February 15, 1842, the daughter of Elijah and
Mary L. Buell, her father being the first settler of Clinton county. (See
mention of him elsewhere in this work.) One child, Edith, born in 1874, now
employed on the regular force of the census department in Washington. D.
C where she has been ten years, was the result of this union. l\Irs. Eaton is
a member of the Congregational church.

Mr. Eaton is a Republican in politics, and in his paper upholds strongly
the policies of the party, and has not left the older doctrines to become an
insurgent. For forty-nine years, since October i, 1861, he has been in the
Mirror ofiice and has done much work there and does yet, being vigorous and
hale. x\lways independent in thought and action, he has made some enemies,
as such men will and as every man does who stands for something, but he has
as well many friends, and even his enemies testify to his honesty and straight-
forwardness.

MATHIAS T. GOHLMANN.

In the history of Clinton county, the names of certain families ap-
pear prominently among the early settlers, and no family is better known
among the agricultural settlers than the Gohlmanns. They have for three
and four generations been identified with the interests of the county, and
during that time have taken part in whatever promised to aid the develop-
ment of the community, and have had much to do witli the establishment
and maintenance of order and good government. Certainlv it is a heritage
of which to be proud to l)e descended from such a family.

]\Iathias T. Gohlmann was born in Waterford township, Clinton countv.
Iowa, on June 18, 1858. the son of J. G. and Catherine (MuUerstedt) Gohl-

MR. AND MRS. MATHIAS T. GOHLMANN

-*^-

THE W" '-mK

III.

-L^

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 857

mann, both natives of Germany, who in 1852 came to Scott county. Iowa,
and after a short stav there came to W'aterford townshi]). Chnton county,
and located on a farm of three hnnch-ed and sixty acres. To this farm J. G.
Gohhnann later added forty acres, and in the sixties purchased the farm
of one hun(h-ed and sixtv acres on which his son Mathias now Hves. He (hed
near Charlotte. Iowa, on August 5. 1900. aged seventy-two; his wife fol-
lowed him on March 11. 1903. Of their seven children, four are living. In
politics Mr. Gohlmann was a Democrat, and lie and his family were mem-
bers of the Lutheran church.

The paternal grandfather of Mathias Gohlmann was Christopher Gohl-
mann. who came from Germany to Clinton county in 1860. and bougi^t one
hundred and sixtv acres of land for each of five children, and died in Clinton
countv at the age of eightyrone. His wife, who was Christina Holgersen,
died in Germany at the age of about forty.

Mathias Gohlmann grew up on a fariu and received his education in the
common schools. He lived on the farm in \\'aterford township until 1883.
^^■hen he remox'ed to the farm iil Berlin township which his father had
bought and on which he still Ii\-es. ha\'ing added to it one hundred and twenty
acres just across the road, making two hundred and eighty acres in one bcVly.
He is a general farmer and stock raiser, and has found agriculture \ery
profitable. In politics he is a Republican, for several years has been assessor
of his townshi]) and school treasurer, and for five years was county super-
visor, all of which offices he has filled to the satisfaction of the people. His
family are meml)ers of the Tu-angelical Lutheran church.

Li March. 1885, Mr. Gohlmann was married to Augusta P'etersen. who
was born in Clinton county on August 3. 1863, the daughter of John and
Christina (^fatthias) Petersen, who came early to Clinton countv from
Germany. To this marriage two children were horn. Christina and Au-
gusta. Mrs. Gohlmann died on May 29, 1888, and in 1893 ^^^'- Gohlmann
was married to Johanna Bertelsen, wdio was born in Brorup. Denmark, on
February 19, 1868. the daughter of John and Alarie (Sailing) Bertelsen.
wdio came to Chnton county. Iowa, in 1889. where Air. Bertelsen died in
1897, and his widow still resides. Three children have l)een born to Mr.
Gohlmann's second marri'ige. Catharine, Marie and Arnulf.

^Mathias T. Gohlmann is one of the most progressive citizens of Berlin
township, and one of the most ]M-actical farmers in the county. He has
made a wide circle of acquaintances, and can call the most of them his
friends. Mrs. Gohlmann's father. John C. Bertelson. was born at Hadesl'ev,
Schleswig, Germany, and her mother in Lintrup, Schleswig, Germany.

85S CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

FRED BELLWOOD SHAW.

Fred Belhvood Shaw, secretary of the American Wire Cloth Company of
CHnton. has shown himself to be a man of excellent judgment, which accounts
for his uniform success in factory work, and he is evidently the possessor of
clear ideas in all business matters. Being' careful in his calculations, resource-
ful in his dealings and eminently honorable in his relations with others, peo-
ple have always reposed confidence in his word and his integrity has been
above criticism.

Mr. Shaw was born in Ontario. Canada, March 5, 1863, and he is the
son of Richard John and Mary Jane (Belhvood) Shaw, both natives of
Canada, the father being of Scotch descent and the mother of English an-
cestry. Many relatives on the father's side have been officers in the British
army, and on the mother's side many of the men were prominent merchants.
Among the list of officers referred to some of them have held ver}^ important
posts, includin-;' the noted Mai -Gen. Enos Shaw.

Richard J. Shaw, the father, was a farmer by occupation and engaged in
that line of work until his death, about 1902, his widow dying six months
later. They were highly respected people and spent quiet lives on their farm,
and their family consisted of three children, two of whom are living. The
father by hard work and good management became very comfortably estab-
lished. He ne\-er sought or held public ofifice.

Fred B. Shaw, of this review, grew to maturity on the home farm in
Canada and when a mere lad was put to work in his father's fields. He
attended the common schools in his neighborhood, and, deciding to become a
pharmacist, he entered the Toronto Pharmaceutical College, graduating with
the class of about 1883. Owing to ill health, he did not begin work in a drug
store, but went to California, in which state he remained some time, then re-
turned to Iowa and started in at Cedar Rapids with the T. M. Sinclair
Packing Compau}-, remaining with the same for a period of nearly five years,
giving eminent satisfaction in this position. On September i, 1907, he
became connected Avith the American Wire Cloth Company at Clinton as
cashier, a position he held until elected secretary in 1910, which he still holds
and the duties of which he discharges in a very able and faithful manner.

Politically Mr. Shaw is a Republican, but he has never taken an es-
pecial interest in public matters, preferring to give his exclusive attention
to the business he had in hand, and this is, no doubt, very largely responsible
for the eminent success that has always crowned his efforts.

^Ir. Slnw was married on January 5, T904, to Mattie SlieW, a native

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 859

of Iowa and the representative of an excellent family. She grew to maturity
in this state and received her education here. Mr. and Airs. Shaw are the
parents of two children, Irving B. and Clarence A.

FRED C. AMLKE.

That America still means "opportunity"' is evidenced in the case of Mr.
Wilke, still a voune man, who came to this countrv with no fortune save his
own clear brain and his inheritance of good German blood from ancestors
who had been used to thrift and economy in situations of hardship. With
this equipment he has, in a foreign land, raised himself to a foremost posi-
tion among the merchants of his town, solely by his own exertions. His
rise was gradual, but persistent, and he passed through many stages of hard
experience. No one can foresee from the beginning the result of a life,
but it is certainly of intense interest to look back over the events of a success-
ful man's life and trace the development of his career, and the manner in
which he overcomes the obstacles which rise before him.

Fred C. AA^ilke was born in Germanv March 2^, 1866, the son of Carl
and Johanna (Reedell) Wilke. His parents were born in Germany and his
father was a laborer there. In 1883 father and son came to America and
landed in Clinton, Iowa, on April 23d. Here the father died in 1905 at his
son's home, aged seventy-eight. The mother died at sixty-seven. They were
the parents of six children, four daughters and two sons, all li\ing. Carl
Wilke was a hard working man and sturdy, honest citizen.

Fred A\'ilke was educated in the German schools, and was seventeen when
he reached this country. For four or five years he worked in a saw mill, then
started teaming and hauling slabs and trimmings for wood. In this way he
accumulated a little capital, and in 1893 ^^^ started in partnership with W.
A. \\'ilke in the coal and ice business, continuing until 1900, when he bought
out his partner and began operations alone in coal, wood and ice, and is now
carrving on this business, at Xo. 320 Main street. His business has greatly
increased and is now one of the largest in the city. In politics he is a Re-
publican. He is a member of the Woodmen of the World and the Modern
W^oodmen of America and of the Mutual Association, the German Society,
the Mutual Life Association and of the Odd Fellows.

Ou November 10, 1892, Mr. Wilke was married to Lena Volkman, a
native of Iowa. To their union four children have been born, Carl, Olga,
Fred, who died at the age of ten, and Bernice.

86o CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Mr. AA'ilke is a strong example of what industry and intelligence will
accomplish when employed even in the commoner walks of life, for beginning
as a laborer, he has won for himself a substantial competence and recognition
amone the established Imsiness men of his citv.

JOHN LIETZ.

The press is one of the most important and influential elements in the life
of any community. One of tlie strong factors in the deyelopment of fraternal
feeling and good citizenship among the German-American residents of Clin-
ton county has been their representation by papers of the highest devotion to
truth and the interests of the people, in which class the loica J\ilks.c.cifini(]. the
oldest German paper in Clinton, stands pre-eminent, while in this regard it re-
flects the character of its publisher, Mr. Lietz.

John Lietz was born in Germany, near Luel:>eck, on November 29, 1847,
the son of Fred and Katharine (Lau) Lietz. Fred Lietz was a cabinetmaker
and died in Germany in 1870. His wife died there in 1872. They were both
highly re.^'pected for their virtues. John Lietz attended the common and poly-
technic schools in Luebeck and learned the cabinetmaker's trade from his
father. Seeing better opportunities in the new Avorld. he came to America in
1867 and first located at Clinton. L)wa. He worked at his trade until 1878,
most of the time remaining in Clinton. l)ut from 1872 to 1876 traveled consid-
er?l)ly. l:eing for a part of the time in Chicago, for a year and more in Colo-
rado.

In April, 1878, Mr. Lietz Ijought an interest in the Io7i'a J^olksrjcifiing.
his partner 1)eing a ^h\ ^XFatzen, and the firm of Matzen & Lietz conducted
the paper until 1880, when Air. Lietz bought out his partner's share and has
since carried on the paper alone. The J^olksccifiun/ was the first German pa.-
per to be established in the city, is a strong Democratic organ, and has estab-
lished a well deserved reputation for devotion to good government in the true
interests of the people.

Mr. Lietz is a memljer of the Odd Fellows order and in political matters
is a faithful adherent of the Democratic party. Li 1880 he was married to
Mrs. Helena Kirchmann, who was born in Germany and came to this country
when young with her mother. John Lietz is highly esteemed by those who
know him, especially by those who are descended from the sturdy German
race.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 86 1

CHRISTIAN AXDRESEN.

It is interesting to nc^te the successive gradations of some business men,
who, apparently with much ease, surmount one obstacle after another until
they have won the goal of their most sanguine dreams of youth, while many
of their fellows, less able plodders on the highway of life, fall by the wayside,
one by one, and give up the struggle. One of the successful business men of
Clinton who has let nothing overcome his ambition and who, while advancing
his own interests, has not lost sight of his obligations to his fellow men, is
Christian Andresen, a nati\e of Schleswig, then a part of Denmark, Init now a
pro\ince of Germany. He is of Danish parentage and was born on Decem-
ber 28, 1850. His parents were Christian and Cecelia (Christisen) Andresen,
both born in the locality mentioned above, the father on February 26, 1800,
and the mother on October 15. 181 1. The elder Andresen was a blacksmith
by trade, which he followed successfully in Schleswig, where he spent his
entire life. His family consisted of one son and two daughters. Christian, of
this review, and ]Mrs. Anna Jensen (deceased) and Mrs. Cecelia Petersen,
who is a resident of Schleswig.

The subject was educated in the schools of his native country and he
learned the carpenter's trade there and followed the same successfuhy there
for many years. Believing that he could better his condition by coming to the
United States, he crossed the Atlantic and arrived in Clinton. Iowa, on May
'i, 1885, having come directly to this city. He first worked for contractor
Dunbar for some time, or until the latter went out of business, then Mr.
Andresen worked at different. jobs on his own account. In 1908 he decided to
abandon carpentering and building and enter the mercantile field, so, in com-
pany with Clans Kruse, his son-in-law, he started a shoe store, which has
grown to large proportions and they have been very successful. They carry
an excellent and modern line of general retail shoes and do shoe repairing, this
department being exceptionally well patronized, for very skilled workman-
ship is turned out. A sketch of Air. Kruse appears elsewhere in this volume.

Mr. Andresen is a member of the Lutheran church and he belongs to the
Danish Society of Clinton, standing well in each.

The subject was married on April 7. 1874. to Matilda Thaizsin. who
was born in Denmark and who came to America, locating at Clinton, Iowa,
when young. Two children have been born to them, daughters, both now
married, namely: Mrs. Cecelia Rasmussen and Mrs. Patria Kruse, wife of
Clans Kruse, mentioned above.

j\Ir. Andresen owns an attracti\-e, modern and comfortal)le home at No.

862 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

1 08 South Sixth street. Chnton. which he built in 1888 and has lived there
ever since. He is a staid business man of quiet disposition, and he takes con-
siderable interest in the affairs of his city and of the Danish and German in-
habitants of the same.

JOSEPH BORBECK.

Herein is mentioned one of Clinton's progressive business men, a lead-
ing lumber dealer of the city, who has again presented to us the often-seen ex-
ample of a Gennan immigrant who by his ability and industry has attained a
leading place among the business men of his community. The lumber busi-
ness is one which has seiwed many people, for almost every phase of con-
stntction is dependent on the lumber dealer for some part of its material,
and we have as yet not devised any method of building which does entirely
away with lumber, much as such a method may seem advisable, in view of the
present diminishing supply of the same. But it is not legitimate use so much
as indiscriminate waste which has been responsible for the destruction of the
forest, and were we now able to command the losses occasioned by settlers'
clearings, forest fires, and wasteful methods of cutting trees and of using
Irmlier. we would not need to fear, as we now do, the extinction of our timber
supply.

Joseph Borbeck was born in Suedlohn, Westphalia, Germany, October
31, 1859. the son of Henry and Elizabeth fLohberg) Borbeck. His parents
were verv respectable people, who spent the days of their lives in Germany.
They had a family of two children, of whom but one is living.

Joseph Borbeck was educated in the common schools and took private
lessons. As a youth he learned the baker's trade. In 1884 he came to
America, expecting to find better opportunities, and located in Lyons. Iowa,
engaged in the lumber busines, learning it by working with his uncle, Frank
Lohberg, Sr.. and later with his cousm, Frank Lohberg, Jr. In 1897 he
boro-ht out his cousin and went into partnershio with Mr. Ingwersen, form-
irip' the firm o^ Ingwersen & Borbeck. He sold his interest in this in 1907.
and was thus engaged in business bv himself at No. 801 Main street, Lvons.
until August. 19 TO, when he formed a partnership corporation with Franz
Lohberg and Fred Lohberg, son and grandson of his former employer.
Thev carry a line of building material of all kinds. Their business is ex-
tensive and is in a very prosperous condition. In politics he is independent.
He is a member of the German Catholic church, also of the ^^^oodmen of the
World and of various German organizations.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 863

Mr. Borbeck was married on April 19, 1884, to Johanna Temming. a
native oi Gernnn}-. They are the parents of ten children: Lizetta. Enielia
(deceased), Mary, Emma, Frank, Josephine (deceased), Henry, Agnes,
Joseph (deceased) and Walburgis.

Mr. Borbeck is in eveiy way an estimable citizen, is interested in all
public affairs, and is well known and liked in the city. His efforts have met
with well deserved success.

CLARENCE A. FAY.

The gentleman w-hose name heads this review is one of the successful
newspaper publishers of the middle west, a member of the Fay Brothers,
Incorporated. His keen business ability has con.triliuted verv nnicli to the
success of their paper, the Clinton Daily Advertiser, and without any neglect
of his business, he has found the opportunity to so broaden his life by travel
that he may now be reckoned as a cosmopolitan citizen of the world,
familiar with its appearance and its people in all parts.

Clarence A. Fay was born in De Witt, Clinton county, Iowa, on June
18, 1859, the son of Horace A. and Calista J. Fay. (See sketch of Louis E.
Fay.) He received all the education obtainable in the De Witt schools, and
then began work as a telegraph operator for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St.
Paul railroad, remained in their employ three years, and then entered the ser-
vice of the Chicago & Northwestern, remaining with them three years, and
serving at many stations. In 1885 he joined his brother, Louis E., as a mem-
ber of the firm of Fay Brothers, publishers of the Clinton County Advertiser,
and has since been a member of the firm (later an incorporation), at present
being secretary and treasurer of the company. (For sketch of the paper see
press chapter and sketch of Louis E. Fay.) He has always been pre-emi-
nently a business man and attends to his own affairs strictly. He is a member
of no lodges, and, though a Democrat, has not been strongly active in politics.
The success of the paper in a financial way has been such as to enable him very
liberally to gratify his tastes for travel, in which he finds his pleasure and recre-
ation. Mr. Fay began in his own continent, has been all OAcr tlie LTnited
States, through ^Mexico, Canada, Alaska and the West Indies, then turninsf
his attention to Europe, has visited nearly every country of that continent,
many of the countries several times. He has been around the world, in Asia
has visited India, Burmah, Palestine, Arabia, China and Japan, among other
countries, has traveled in Egypt and expects to A'isit South America next.

864 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

During his travels he has gained a vast amount of knowledge, education and
experience, and speaks of his travels very entertainingly.

On June 27, 1888, Mr. Fay was married to Minnie A. Olds, a native of
Albany, Illinois, the daughter of Walker and Susan (Parks) Olds, born
January 21, 1866. Her father, who was a merchant at Albany, is dead, and
her mother still resides there. Mrs. Fay is a member of the Presbyterian
church.

Mr. Fay lives in a handsome house at No. 337 Fourth avenue, Clinton.
He is a gentleman of a veiy courteous manner, and shows in his bearing and
attitude the careful man of business and the polished citizen of the world.

FATHER J. A. MURRAY.

The life of a pastor has its many perplexing situations and many obstacles
in the way. More than any other profession, this requires tact, patience
and perseverance, kindness and long suffering, and these often fail of appar-
ent reward. Father Murray was sent into Clinton, a young and inexperi-
enced man. under trving and peculiar conditions. For some time it seemed
that his task would be fruitless, but his faithful persen-erance was rewarded
and the parish of St. Patrick's today stands a living monument to a living
man. the result of his labors.

J. A. ]\Iurray was born in Blarney, county Cork, Ireland, on May 18,
1864. His early education was recei\ed in the ^•illagc school, his classical
course was taken at Mount JMelleray, and his theological studies were pur-
sued at All Hallows College, Dublin. On June 24, 1888, he took the vows
and was ordained as a priest, and in September of the same year crossed the
ocean to America, and arrived at Dubuque, Iowa, where he was appointed
assistant at the cathedral, and shortly after was appointed chancellor of the
diocese.

On the day after Thanksgiving, in 1889, Father Murray came to Clinton,
ha\'ing ])een sent by the archbishop to organize the parish of St. Patrick's.
Here he met with great opposition. The peoj)le were satisfied to be a part of
St. Mary's parish, for which they had recently contributed largely for the
construction of 1)uildings, and could see no need for another parish. Affairs
looked dark indeed for the success of the young man's purpose, but at last one
meml)er of the proposed parish agreed to loan enough money to ])urchase the
land for clnn^ch buildings, and after this start enough money was soon pledged

REV. J. A. MURRAY

THE HT3^V TfOR^

PUBUC LIBUAUY

R ^

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 865

for the ])uilding of the first church. But as soou as they were erected auother
difficulty confronted the young man. The grounds had cost eight thousand
dollars, the buildings ten thousand dollars ; the times were hard, the con-
gregation poor, the lumber industry, on which many of them were depend-
ent, was declining, and l)ut five hundred dollars had been collected. Even so,
the Father collected among his poor parishioners money to be sent to the
sufferers from the famine in Russia, they subcjrdinating their own necessities
to the needs of others. The work was at all times difficult, but in ten years all
debts were paid, and in 1905 the new St. Patrick's church, a splendid struc-
ture, was built, as well as the rectory, at an entire cost of forty thousand
dollars, twenty-five thousand dollars of which had been collected beforehand.

In the early days of his pastorate in Clinton, Father Murray started the
Mercy Hospital and Mt. St. Clare on two beautiful bluff's in the city. Both
these institutions, like St. Patrick's parish, are enjoying the most flattering
success.

Father Murray has now been twenty-one years at the head of St. Pat-
rick's parish, and during that time has made by the goodness of his char-
acter manv friends among all denominations, and no enemies. The deeds of
his daily life speak sufficiently well of the character and worth of the man,
and on them let his earthly reputation rest, while the Father above will finally
appraise them at their full ^•alue.

CLAUS KRUSE.

Although starting in life practically empty handed, the power of multi-
plying his possessions with infinite tact and skill seems to have been a gift
freely granted to Claus Kruse, a shoe merchant of Clinton, low-a, and he
added to this ability abundant energy and devotion to his chosen work wdth
the result that he has become very comfortably established while yet young
in years.

Mr. Kruse was born in Germany, on August 26, 1878, and he is the son
of George and Catherine (Knutsen) Kruse, both still living. They came to
America many years ago, and the father is farming in Illinois, while the
mother makes her home in Clinton, low-a.

Claus Kruse came to Douglas county, Illinois, with his parents in 1883,
when about five years old. There the father bought a farm, and in 1885 the
family moved to Clinton, Iowa, and here the subject was educated in the com-

(55)

866 ■ CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

men schools. After leaving school he worked at the wagonmaker's trade
with the firm of Fish Brothers, of this city. Later he learned the shoemaker's
trade and worked at the same for several years, becoming a very proficient
workman. In 1907 he started in business for himself with a retail shoe store
and repair shop at No. 102 North Fourth street. He had begun to build up
a good trade when, six months later, his father-in-law, Christian Andresen
(whose sketch appears on another page of this work), started in business with
him, forming a partnership and increasing the stock, the firm being known as
the Claus Kruse Company until January i, 191 1, when Mr. Kruse bought out
Mr. Andresen's interest and has since conducted the business alone, and he
continued to do a large and growing business, enjoying an excellent reputation
throughout the vicinity.

Mr. Kruse was married on July 19, 1899, to Patria Andresen, daughter
of Christian Andresen. mentioned above. She was born on September 28,
1878, and received a good education in the local schools.

Tv\'o children ha\e been l:orn to Mr. and ]\Irs. Kruse. namely: Claudine
and Albert.

FRANK W. ELLIS.

Though among the younger representatives of the legal profession at
Clinton, Frank W. Ellis has won distinction in his conduct of litigation, and
stands high in the estimation of the members of the Clinton county bar. The
son of one of the ablest practitioners of the city, he inherited much of his
father's natural aptitude for the law, but, realizing that hard work counts for
more than talent in this profession, he applied himself steadily to its study,
and is very thorough in his preparation of legal work.

Frank W. Ellis was born in the city which is still his home on May 4,
1865, the son of Lyman A. and Mary (Buckley) Ellis. His father was long
prominent in Clinton county politics and legal affairs. Frank W. attended
the schools of Clinton, and was graduated from the high school in 1883. He
afterward attended the University of Minnesota, and later read law with the
firm of Ellis & McCoy. In May, 1888, he was admitted to the bar, and prac-
ticed until 1890. He then removed to Denver, where he continued in prac-
tice for four years, and at the expiration of that period returned to Clinton,
where he was for several years a member of the firm of Ellis & Ellis, since
which time he has been a member of the prosperous and influential firm of
Barker, Ellis & McCoy, which firm is now Ellis & McCoy, Mr. Barker having
been elected to the bench. Mr. Ellis is a man of high mental endowments.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 86/

Ambitious to excel in the things that are worth while, and of undaunted per-
severance and determination, he has gained a recognized place in his pro-
fession, and has a bright future.

In May, 1899, Mr. Ellis was married to Celeste Ware, of Clinton, and
one child. Jane, was born to them in June, 1900. In his fraternal relations
Mr. Ellis is a ]\Iason and a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order
of Elks, while in politics he is a Republican, takes active part in the party
work, and served for some years as city attorney of Clinton. During his
practice he has laid a strong foundation in the principles of law, and is usually
able easily to place a case which comes before him in its proper categor}-', and
then by adequate prei)aration he becomes such a master of the (|uestions in-
volved that he is indeed a formidable opponent to whom ever he meets and
rightly deserves the success which he has so often won. Mr. Ellis is a man
of much public spirit and is ever ready to lend his aid and influence to any
measure which has the good of the community for its purpose.

LYMAN ANDREW ELLIS.

Lyman A. Ellis Avas one of the distinguished lawyers and statesmen of
Iowa. There Avere few men in this community whose lives are crowned with
greater honor and respect than is generally accorded him. Through many
years he was an important factor in public affairs, and will leave the impress
of his individuality for good upon the commonwealth.

The birth of the subject occurred on a farm a few miles north of Burling-
ton. Vermont, March 11, 1833. The family home was on the eastern shore
of Lake Champlain and in that locality he attended the district school and at
the age of eighteen he began teaching. In this way he was enabled to meet
the expenses of an academic course in Bakersfield and Colchester and to pur-
sue a course of lectures in a law school in Vermont, where, graduating, he
was admitted to the bar, and at twenty-one years he resolved to try his fortunes
in the west. After visiting at various places, he began the practice of law in
Clinton county. Iowa, in 1861, where he rose almost at once into prominence
and steadily maintained a place in the foremost ranks of the profession in the
state. In 186;; he was elected district attorney of the seventh judicial district,
consisting of Jackson, Scott, IMuscatine and Clinton counties. In this ofiice
he became noted as a jury advocate and trial lawyer, and gave such general
satisfaction that he was four times re-elected, holding the office for the period

868 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

of sixteen years, and finally retiring in 1880. From that time until his death
he was engaged in the general practice of law in the state and federal courts.
The Iowa Law Reports show how extensive and successful had been his
practice in the supreme court of Iowa.

For a number of years Mr. Ellis was prominent as one of the leaders in
the Republican party of Iowa. From the organization of the party he never
faltered in his allegiance thereto, and his efforts contributed in no incon-
siderable degree to Republican successes. His fitness for leadership and
official honors was recognized in 1893 in his election to the office of senator
from Clinton county, though it had previously gone Democratic by a large
majority. During the first term he became widely known as a debator and
renowned for his oratorical ability, winning distinction for his memorable
speech against woman suffrage, a speech which won much admiration and
was commented upon at length by the press of the entire state. He was a
bold and vehement speaker, and inflexil:)le in his views as to state policies or
what he considered a wholesome, provident legislation ; yet he never resorted
to vituperation, ridicule or abuse of his opponents. In 1897 he refused a
renomination as senatorial candidate because his duties at Des Moines claimed
so much time from his professional labors; and it is a well-known fact that
his devotion to the interests of his clients was vigilant and untiring, and gen-
erally successful. He was a determined advocate of local option for the sake
of control of the liquor traffic in counties where prohibition had been a failure,
and to his persistency and leadership the modification of state-wide prohibi-
tion and the provision for the manufacture of liquors in Iowa was largely
due. He accepted these modifications, whose provisions, though not entirely
satisfactory, were the best that could then be obtained. During the second
session of the twenty-sixth General Assembly he was chairman of the judiciary
committee, and here his knowledge of the law and general ability as a safe
and conservative legislator proved him to be a practical worker as well as an
orator. At the special session of 1897 ^^^ "^'^''^^ made a member of the joint
committee for the annotation and pu1)lication of the new code, serving' as its
vice-chairman.

He had a nice discrimination as to legal ethics, and he was so thoroughly
well read that he was able to base his arguments upon thorough knowledge of
and familiarity with precedents and originality in application, and to present
a case upon its peculiar merits, never failing to recognize the main point at
issue, and never neglecting a thorough preparation. His pleas were char-
acterized by logical and lucid analysis as well as ornament in metaphor and
illustration, and his power was greater before court or jury from the fact that
it was recognized that his aim was to secure exalted justice and not to en-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 869

shroud the cause in a sentimental garb, or ihusion wliicli would thwart the
principles of right and equity involved.

On the 1 2th of November, 1856, Mr. Ellis was united in marriage to
Mary Buckley, and unto them were born six children : Daniel B., an attorney
of Denver, Colorado; George B., who has large manufacturing and fruit-
growing interests in southern California; Charles F., a business man of Los
Angeles, California; Frank W., whose sketch appears elsewhere in this vol-
ume; Gertrude May, wife of Garrett E. Lamb, one of the prominent business
men and financiers of Clinton; and Lvman AL, now engaged in Ixisiness in
southern California.

Lyman A. Ellis departed tliis life in Ji^^ne, 1905, leaving behind him not
only a brilliant record as statesman and lawyer, but also an enviable reputation
as a man of unimpeachable character. He was in every sense a broad minded
and cultured gentleman and while starting out in life with but limited oppor-
tunities, he arose to a ])osition of prominence second to none in the history of
the legal profession in the state of Iowa. He was survived by his wife, who
now lives in Clinton, Iowa.

JUDGE CHARLES WARREN CHASE.

Of all the residents of Clinton since the foundation of the town, no one
has left behind the memory of a stronger and more lovable character, nor has
been more active in the duties becoming a man and a citizen than was Judge
Chase, and certainly a history of Clinton county Avould be incomplete Avhich
should fail to make mention of his life and achievements, the value of which
is apparent to any one who reads of his actions.

Charles Warren Chase was born December 8, 1834, in London, New
Hampshire, the son of Charles W. and Lavinia (Moore) Chase. When
Charles was very young his parents moved to Meredith, New Hampshire, and
here he lived on his father's farm until he was sixteen, when he went to Con-
cord, New Hampshire, and there clerked in a drug store for one year. From
there he went to Fitchburg, ?\Iassachusetts, and for three years worked in
James A. Lane's wholesale drug' house and learned the business. He then
spent four years in taking a classical course at New Hampton Institute, New^
Hampton, New Hampshire. This enabled him to enter Dartmouth College as
a sophomore, and he graduated from this institution in i860. Now he entered
the law office of Col. T. J. AAHiipple at Laconia, New Hampshire, and after
taking a three years course in two, was admitted to the bar in 1861.

In the spring of 1862 he enlisted as a private in Company G. Twelfth

870 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

New Hampshire Volunteers. On the night of his enhstment he had attended
a war meeting, one of several which had been held, although no enlistments
had been secured. ]\Ir. Chase was called upon for a speech and in its course
stated his belief that the reason there had been no previous enlistments con-
sisted in the fact that none of the wealthier men of the town had guaranteed
to care for the families of those enlisting. In closing this his first public
speech, he said, "To prove that I mean what I say I will now sign my own
name." As he did so several of the wealthy men present gave the guarantee
which he had suggested, and sixty other young men followed Mr. Chase's
example in enlisting. By special permission of the governor, the regiment
was allowed to choose its own officers, and the company, organized in Lake
Village, unanimously chose Mr. Chase as captain, and presented him with a
sword. Just before the regiment left for the front he was united in marriage
to Susan M. Cole, of Lake Village, New Hampshire, September 20, 1862.

Captain Chase and his company served in General Hooker's division, and
during the siege of Fredericksburg he was seriously injured, never fully re-
covering from the effects. When he was again able for duty he was made
post commandant at Jeffersonville, Indiana, and, as acting colonel, had charge
of distributing forces there and at Louisville. But his constitution was under-
mined, and the effects of remaining on duty day and night for a week during
Morgan's raid brought on a serious illness, which forced him to resign in
the summer of 1864.

Captain Chase came to Clinton, Iowa, in January, 1865, and began the
practice of law, in which he continued even up to a few hours before his death,
entering the office of Myron H. Terrell. He was exceedingly devoted to his
profession, and bore the reputation of being the hardest working lawyer in
Clinton. He was more than ordinarily careful of the interests of his clients.
His practice covered all branches of the law, but he made more of a specialty
of municipal and corporation law, and became an authority on such subjects.

Much of his time was spent in the service of his city and county, in the
advancement of whose interests he \vas always deeply interested. For nine
years he served as a member of the school board and introduced many im-
provements in school affairs. In 1870 he was elected clerk of the county
court, and held this office for two terms of two years. Then he returned to
the practice of law, and was made city solicitor for Clinton in 1878. In this
capacity he did his first important work for the city, in revising the ordinances,
a work accomplished through his influence and efforts, and of unceasing bene-
fit. Later he was elected county attorney, and in 1880 was made circuit
judge, holding this office four years. In 1888, the people of Clinton, know-
ing of his fitness and well-tried worth, called him to the office of mayor. In

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 8/1

this capacity he succeeded in securing- some of the greatest results accomplished
in the way of city legislation. In his administration ordinances were passed
governing paving conditions, and the first paving was laid in this city. The
state laws were revised by his efforts to gain better paving service. The
water works franchise was extended and a settlement effected during this ad-
ministration very favorable to city interests. Better water service was ob-
tained and the company forced to make settlement for rents and franchises
given. Also during this term the great legal battle over the sewerage ordi-
nances was fought. The laws affecting this as thev were re\-ised were of
Judge Chase's own creation, and the introduction of them precipitated one of
the fiercest legal battles ever fought in these courts. All the best leg'al talent
was arrayed against the ordinance, l)ut it withstood the efforts of the closest
trial. Among other ordinances provided in his term was the one governing
permanent walks. Unflinchingly he performed his duties of enforcing the
laws, and showed to the people of Clinton that they could be enforced, in-
cluding the licjuor laws. It was supposed that these latter could not be en-
forced in Clinton and not the least achievement of his administration was their
strict application.

For many years before his death he was recognized as Clinton's leading
laW3'-er. From 1893 he was a member of the firm of Chase & Seaman. Al-
ways, whether officially connected with' the city of Clinton or not, he made her
adx'ancement and betterment his chief interest. He gained legal reputation
in other states as well as in Iowa, but perhaps the greatest tribute to his char-
acter as a man is the fact that he was so universally revered and trusted by all
the citizens of Clinton, even the humblest. He died August 10, 1907. Sur-
viving him he left his wife and four children. Charles Perr\' Chase, of the
Iowa Engineering Company of Clinton. ]\Irs. Catherine Chase Jefferson and
Miss Sue Cole Chase, of Clinton, and ]\Irs. \^ernie Chase Brown, of Toronto.
Canada. One child, Xora Winifred, died in infancy.

Xo better tribute to the memory of Judge Chase nor more fitting expres-
sion of the virtues of his character can be s-iven than the following extracts
from resolutions passed upon the occasion of his death bv those who from their
long association with him Avere best equipped to know him.

From the resolutions of the Bar Association : ''Judge Chase was, we are
proud to sav. a man of irreproachable integrity, of stainless reputation, and
in his hv and professional life the mirror of honor.

'"AMien we have recorded these sentiments we lia\e said as much as
volumes could speak, and yet we desire to express our further appreciation of
his abilities. In corporation law. in proljate law. and in many other specialties
and branches of the law. he was a keen, patient, painstaking worker, whose

872 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

solution of a legal problem was sound and comprehensive. As a lawyer his
judgment was reliable, as a court of equity his conclusions were just, and as
an official his acts were satisfactory, faithful and beneficial. This is high
praise, but deserved, and perhaps sufficient, but yet, again we linger to admire
the scope of his modesty, and with it the strength of his will, an unition of two
forces which hews to the goal of success.

"Upon the tablets of our memories he has left many other evidences of
his high attainments, cogent among which were his unswerving kindness and
consideration for others at all times, his capability to make and cement strong
friendships, and that great capacity to make himself a tower of strength
among his brethren of the bar and in the community which he adorned."

From the resolutions of the directors of the City National Bank : "Judge
Chase was a rare character. Without ostentation, but with a quiet, pains-
taking industry, he capably and faithfully filled the many positions of honor
and trust that came to him, most often unsought. As an attorney, as clerk
of the courts, as a judge on the bench, as the mayor of the city — in each posi-
tion he made a record for ability and fidelity that was highly honorable.

"As a soldier — captain in a New Hampshire regiment in the Civil war —
it was said of him by a prominent attorney of Nebraska, who was a private
under his command, 'He was the sandiest man that ever stood on a battle-
field.' Yet no man e\-er knew from his lips that he had ever stood where
'war's (lire carnage raged.'

"He left a good name, which is worth more than great Wealth. All who
knew him believed in him ; all trusted him ; best of all, all loved him. We,
who have been associated with him, will miss him and his counsel.

"Though he has passed from our sight, he is still held in loving remem-
brance, and the influence of such a life will live on, a vitalizing force for the
world's betterment."

NICHOLAS FRED WULF.

The subject of this sketch belongs to the large foreign element wliich con-
stitute such an important part of Clinton county's populace, and to which the
country is so greatly indebted for the material prosperity of recent vears
which has characterized the growth and advancement of this county. Indus-
trious, energetic and intellig'ent, he has borne his share in the development of
the section of the country in which he lixes, and though l)ut tew years a citizen
of the United States, he is as truly American in his ideas and tendencies as if
he had l)een l)orn on American soil.

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MR. AND MRS. NICHOLAS F. WULF

TUr. NEW iy)RK

Pl.'lUJC T,IB..ARY

A8 0 . T.K^'Ol, AND

mtin-N I'OJNUATIONS

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 8/3

Nicholas Fred Wnlf was born in Germany January 3, 1867, being one
of seven children whose parents were Christian and Marguerite (Rehse)
Wulf. Christian ^^^^lf. a brick and stone mason l)y trade, spent his entire
life in the fatherland and died near the place of his birth in the year 1870.
Later his widow came to the United States and located at Grand Mound.
Iowa, where she has since made her home. Six of the seven children of
Christian and Marguerite Wulf are living, two of whom are still in Germany,
the others residing in different parts of the United States.

Nicholas Fred Wulf enjoyed the advantages of a common school educa-
tion in his native land and while still a youth he began supporting himself as
a farm laborer. Having heard and read much of America and the opportuni-
ties which it aft'orded young men to better their condition, he bade farewell
to home and friends in 1885 and in due time arrived at his destination in this
country, making his way direct to Grand Mound, Iowa, where for some time
he turned his hands to any kind of honest labor he could find. After working
in this way for a couple of years, he rented land and gave his attention to
agriculture. He continued tilling the soil for a share of the proceeds until
1909, when he bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Berlin town-
ship, since which time he has conducted his labors upon a more extensive scale
and forged rapidly to the front among the leading agriculturists of his part of
the county. In connection with general farming, he feeds considerable live
stock and from the two sources is the recipient of an income which, judging
b}- what he has already accomplished, will ere long place him in easy circum-
stances.

The political affiliations of Mr. Wulf are with the Repuljlican party and,
though never allowing himself to become excited over pul)lic aft'airs, he aims
to keep in touch with his party and familiar with the leading issues of the
times. He is an excellent farmer, an intelligent and enterprising citizen and
in every relation of life he enjoys the confidence of those with whom he
mingles and stands high in the esteem of the public. Like the majority of
his countrymen, he was reared a Lutheran and still holds to the doctrine of
that church, being a zealous worker in the local society which he attends and
a liberal contributor to its support.

On February 19, 1896, Mr. Wulf and Lena Correll. daughter of Abram
Correll. mentioned elsewhere in these pages, were united in the holy bonds of
matrimony, the union being blessed with three children, namely : Glenn Galen,
Eula Fern and Beryl Otho.

Thus in a rather cursor}- manner lias been set forth the leading facts and
characteristics in the life of. one of Clinton county's representative farmers and

8/4 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA,

intelligent citizens. In the most liberal meaning of the term, he is a self made
man. his rise from the humble position of a day laborer to his present condition
among the successful agriculturists of his township, and that. too. in a com-
paratively short time, being due entirely to his own efforts.

PAUL D. AND CLAUDE D. HART.

The Hart family has long been one of the best known and most highly
respected in Clinton county and its several members have played varied and
conspicuous roles in the drama of civilization here for many decades, being
prominent in business, civic and social life, and two of the best known mem-
bers of this house are Paul D. and Claude D.

The former was born March 6. 1880. in the city of Clinton, and he is
the son of Paul S. and Elizabeth (Martin) Hart. The father, a man of
many sterling characteristics, was born near Montreal, Canada, in March,
1832. He grew up in his native land and was educated, starting out in life
for himself at an early age and making a successful business man, devoting
the major part of his active life to the lumber business. His death occurred
in 1883. having spent his last years in Clinton, Iowa, to which city he emi-
grated in 1872 and was soon well established here. He was a worthy member
of the Episcopal church, and politically he was a Democrat. He married
Elizabeth Martin, of Belle River. Canada, in 1861. She was bom in 1845,
and her death occurred in March, 1902. To this union eleven children were
born.

Paul D. Hart was reared and educated in Clinton, receiving an excellent
text-book training, having applied himself very carefully to his studies. For
some time he worked at the cab and livery business, and in 1899 he and his
brother, Claude D., formed a partnership and started the firm of Hart Broth-
ers Liver}' and Cab Line, which they have continued with signal and ever-
growing success, being well equipped in every respect for the large business
which they are carrying on. They have a prestige second to none in this line
throughout this locality and their firm is popular with the traveling and gen-
eral public.

Paul D. Hart is an Episcopalian and a Democrat in politics. He was
married on March 26, 1906. to Clarita DeBeltrand. who was born in Michigan
in September, 1889, the daughter of an excellent family, and this union has
resulted in the birth of one child, Jean Daniel.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 875

Claude D. Hart was born February 6, 1872, in LaPorte, Indiana, and he
is the son of Paul S. and Eli;cal)eth ( Alartin) Hart, mentioned above, and the
brother of Paul D. Hart, his partner in business. He was only one month
old when his parents brought him to Clinton. Iowa, and here he grew to ma-
turity and was educated, receiving excellent training in the local schools.
Being an ambitious hd and anxious to start in the lousiness world for him-
self, he began working in a saw-mill at the age of eleven years. When eigh-
teen he began work as a passenger brakeman, which he continued for a period
of ten years, being regarded by the railroad company as one of their most
trusted and faithful employes. Then he entered into partnership with his
brother, Paul D., as mentioned above, and has continued in the livery and
cab business to the present time.

Claude D. Hart is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, and
of the Episcopal church; politically he is a Democrat. He was married on
November 24. 1895, ^^ Mary Adler, of Clinton, who was born on June 2, 1872,
her family being well known here. This union has been ^vithout issue.

PHINEAS STEWART TOWLE.

That life is the most useful and desirable that results in the greatest good
to the greatest number and, although all do not reach the heights to which they
aspire, yet in some measure each can win success and make life a blessing to
his fellowmen ; and it is not necessary for one to occupy eminent public posi-
tions to do so. for in tlic Inimbler walks of life there remains much good
to be accompHshed and many opportunities for one to exercise talents and
influence which will in some Avay touch the li\-es of those with whom we come
in contact, making them better and brighter. One of the conspicuous figures
in the lousiness and social life of Clinton county of a past generation who
seized every opportunity to improve not only his own condition but also that
of his neighbors, thereby making life more sunny for himself, his family and
his fellow men, was Phineas Stewart Towle, founder and builder of the large
and well known mercantile firm bearing this name, and who after a well-spent
and honorable career, is now sleeping the sleep of the just.

Mr. Towle was born in Bath, Steuben county. New York, of a sterling
okl familv of the Empire state, on June 8, 1836. He was the son of Jona-
than, wh(^ was the son of Thomas, Ijorn in 1770, in New Hampshire, his fam-
ilv figuring in the earlv history of that state. He was educated in the old-
time schools of his native community and grew to maturity in the parental

876 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

liome. He had an amljition to lie a merchant from early youth and he accord-
ingly lent every effort in that direction, heginning as a clerk in a dry goods
store at Olean, Xe\y York. Like many of the young men of the New Eng-
land states in the fifties and sixties, Mr. To\yle emigrated to the West and
made his subse(juent home here, locating in Clinton, To\ya. in 1866. He \yas
soon established in the dry goods business on First street and was successful
from the start, gradually building up a large and popular establishment by his
fair, straightfor\yard dealing and his judicial and careful management, thus
la}ing the foundation for the present extensive firm of Towle & Spreter Com-
pany. He always kept a clean, carefully selected and up-to-date stock of goods
and was obliging and courteous to the trade, his customers becoming his
friends as a rule. By nature and by training he became one of the most suc-
cessful merchants of this part of the state and was universally recognized as
one of Clinton count}-"s most progressi^•e and representative citizens.

Mr. Towle was married to Mary Brother, the representative of an excel-
lent old family of Bath, Steuben county. New York, where her birth occurred
on November 21, 1839. They were married on December 12, 1867, at the old
home and this union proved to be a mutually happy and fortunate one. It was
blessed by the birth of three children, namely : Henry Stewart, of Clinton,
Iowa: Charles Brother, of Lincoln, Nebraska; and Stewart AY of Clinton.

Mr. Towle Avas prominent in the Masonic fraternity and also the Ancient
Order of United Workmen, having attained the thirty-second degree in the
former and he was grand master of the state in the latter. His influence was
wide and veiy marked in these old and honored orders, and his daily life in-
dicated that he endeavored to live up to their sublime precepts.

The death of this excellent citizen and valued friend of a vast host of
acquaintances occurred on July 18, 1898, in Elmira, New York, while on a
visit to that city. He was a man whom to know was to respect and admire,
for he was an upright, kind-hearted gentleman of fine address, and his life is
worthy of emulation.

WILLIAM H. CARROLL.

"Through struggle to triumph'' seems to be the maxim which holds sway
for the majority of our citizens, and. though it is undoubtedly true that many
fall exhausted in the conflict, a few, by their inherent force of character and
strong mentality, rise above their environment and all which seems to hinder
them, until thcv reach the i)lane of pfiluence toward which their faces were set
through the long years of struggle that must necessarily precede any accom-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 877

plishment of great magnitude. Such has been the history of \\'ilham H. Car-
roll, one of the most popular attorneys of Clinton county and one of her most
public spirited and honored citizens.

Mr. Carroll was born in Scott county, Iowa, April i6, 1869. He is the
son of James and Alice (O'Brian) Carroll. The father was for a number of
years a prosperous farmer in Scott county, where he was well known and in-
fiuential. He is now living retired in the city of Clinton and is high!}' re-
spected by a wide circle of friends and accjuaintances. His wife passed to her
rest on October 17, 1870. William H. Carroll grew up on a farm in Scott
county and attended the rural schools, and he was graduated from the Dixon
Normal School in 1888, receiving an excellent education. He began teaching
in Scott county, also continued to teach after coming to Clinton county, having
been principal at Grand Mound for a period of one year, giving the greatest
satisfaction to both pupil and patron, being both an instructor and an enter-
tainer in the school room. Had he continued teaching he would doubtless have
become long ere this one of the notal)le educators of the state, 1)ut believing
that the legal field held especial inducements for him, he entered the law de-
partment of the State University of Iowa in 1892, where he made a splendid
record and from which institution he was graduated in 1894. He soon after-
ward entered the law office of his brother, A. E. Carroll, in Clinton, and
has remained in the same office until the present time, hi\-ing enio\'ed a
very satisfactory practice from the first and a constantly growing clientele.
He has figured prominently in the local courts and is known to be a most care-
ful, painstaking and deliberate attorney, always guarded in his expressions
and cautious in arriving" at conclusions, persistent and indefatigable in his re-
search and profoundly versed in the basic principles of jurisprudence and well
informed on the latest decisions of courts. As a trial lawyer he has few
equals and no superiors, and he is always a very busy man, his ser\ices being
in great demand at all times. Owing to his ability and his interest in public
matters, he was soon singled out for offices of trust and for the past six years
he has filled to his own credit and to the satisfaction of all concerned the office
of assistant county attorney. He is president of the Da\enport Abstract Com-
pany, and he is a director in the Guaranty Life Insurance Company of Daven-
port. Fraternallv Mr. Carroll belongs to the Benevolent and Protective
Order of Elks, the Knights of Columbus, being a charter member of the latter
and is past grand knight. He is also a member of Sheridan Clul>. The
well known law firm of which he is a meml)er has offices both in Clinton and
Davennort. and is composed of \\'illiam H., A. E. and E. J. Carroll.

William H. Carroll was married on April 19. 1899, to Elizabeth V. Streib,
a lady of culture and refinement, a resident and native of Clinton. Six children

878 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

have blessed this union, named as follows : Vincent, Raymond, Alice, Marian,
Elizaljeth and \\'. Herl^ert. They are all, with their parents, constituting a
mutually happy home circle.

CHARLES F. ALDEN.

Charles F. Alden was born in Augusta, Maine, in July, 1849, ^ lineal
descendant of John Alder;. He grew to manhood in Maine, and in 1870 came
to Clinton, Iowa, and engaged in th.e dry goods business, as a partner in the
firm of W'hitehouse 8z Alden, which continued for twelve years. They were
successful. Upon the dissolution of this firm Air. Alden engaged in the coal
business. For some time he has held the responsible position of vice-president
of the People's Trust and Savings Bank.

Mr. Alden was married in 1883 to Harriet Lamb, the daughter of Charles
Lamb, of Indiana. Fraternally he is a member of the Masons, having taken
the work of the Scottish Rite and lower lodges, up to the thirty-second degree,
and is one of the Clinton lodge of Elks. In politics he is independent, voting
for men rnd measures, not for a party ticket.

THE CLINTON SUGAR REFINING COMPANY.

Among the various manufacturing industries which have been incident
to the recent upl)uilding of the city of Clinton and which have brought her
into wide-spread prominence, especially in industrial circles, the Clinton Sugar
Refining Company stands as one of the most extensive and important, al-
though as one of the newest, but it has been a great success from the first and
thus far the financial wisdom of its establishment has been proven and from
time to time extensions hive been pronuilgated of promising character, giving
tangible shape to a combination of enterprise, sound business judgment and
well directed energy. Its present position of importance in the lousiness and
commercial world has been attained almost by one colossal stride.

This concern was organized in 1906 and has been in operation since 1907,
employing over three hundred men, and it is a splendid example of that rapid
upbuilding which has characterized the Middle West. The officers of the
National Canning Company were the real organizers, their purpose being to
furnish one of the chief users of glucose with the supplies necessary to their

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA, 879

business. With this object in view, a corporation was officered on June 5,
1906, with a capitalization of one million and one hundred thousand dollars,
five hundred thousand being preferred stock and six hundred thousand com-
mon stock. The following officers and directors were elected : O. H. Peckham,
of St. Louis, president ; V. L. Price, of St. Louis, vice-president ; A. J. Walter,
of St. Louis, secretary; F. D. Seward, of St. Louis, treasurer; A. H. Kers-
ting, of Clinton, general manager; F. E. Peckham, of Clinton, assistant secre-
tary-treasurer; Frank A. Manning, of Louisville, Kentucky; Frank F. Reed, of
Chicago, and A. W. Paris, of Minneapolis, Minnesota. All these names are
well known to industrial circles of the Mississippi valley, and it is not strange
that they should promote and develop in a short time a great enterprise like
that in question.

With this organization behind the movement, a tract of seventeen acres
was purchased below Harrison street, between the Chicago & Northwestern
tracks and the ^Mississippi river, at Clinton, Iowa, an ideal site for factory
purposes, and ground was iM'oken on Juh' 25th, following, the actual construc-
tion of the mammoth plant being begun soon afterwards. In the month of
April, 1907, the large buildings were completed, being models of convenience,
utility and stability, modern, sanitary, commodious and in ever)- way suited to
the purposes desired. The manufacturing facilities of the plant correspond
with the buildings, being equipped with special machinery of tlie most up-to-
date patterns, selected and designed to give the most minute accuracy of me-
chanical detail, no expense or pains being spared to combine endurance with
a mechanism that would bring the high-grade results demanded.

After the completion of the buildings and the installation of the machin-
ery, operations were begun at once, and since April, 1907, the Clinton Sugar
Refining Company has attained and held a prominent and secure place among
the leading manufacturing industries of eastern Iowa. The natural location
of the plant has given its owners a decided advantage. Clinton is the center of
four of the great corn belt railroads, through which channels abundant sup-
plies are drawn ; these roads are the Chicago & Northwestern, the Chicago &
St. Paul, the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy, and the Chicago, Rock Island &
Pacific Railroad Companies. The land belonging to this company is washed
by the waters of the great Mississippi, and from this stream the entire water
supply is obtained, about two and one-half million gallons daily being filtered
for use in the manufacture of glucose; and additional transportation facilities
are also furnished by the river. In addition to these natural advantages, the
company, as already intimated, has in use the latest improved machinery, its
electric power being generated from a turbine plant installed in December,
1909, and water is filtered 1)y the latest approved methods. A fire department.

, 88o CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

consisting of trained employes, has been organized for emergency cases. A
cooper shop for making its own barrels is a distinct feature of the plant.

The chief products of the Clinton Sugar Refining Company are glucose,
starch and grape sugar ; the by-products are corn oil, corn oil cakes and gluten
feed, all of which are made from raw material, corn. The business of this
company is rapidly growing, large shipments now being made to all parts of
the United States, and a very encouraging export trade has been begun.

Only two of the officers of this company reside in Clinton, A. H. Kerst-
ing, the general manager, and F. E. Peckham, the assistant secretary-treasurer.
The main offices are in St. Louis, and the Clinton plant is but one of some eigh-
teen or twenty scattered throughout the West.

HANS ANDERSON.

Denmark is a small nation and has sent few immigrants to this country,
but those whom she has sent are of the mold from which men are made. Not
being large or powerful enough to engage in the struggle for empire which
is characteristic of the larger European nations, this small one is not burdened
with a large navy and army and has correspondingly more time to devote to
the peaceful arts, and can present to the rest of the world a body of citizens
unexcelled in character by a like number from any nation. Her school system
is among the best in the world, and there is a smaller per cent of illiterate
persons among her inhabitants than among any other. Perhaps it would be
well for some of the larger nations to follow her example and develop the
peaceful arts in opposition to so much preparation for aggressive warfare.

Hans Anderson was born in Denmark, July 5, 1850, son of Andrew and
Christine Anderson, who were natives of the country and spent their lives
there. Andrew was a weaver by trade and the father of two sons and two
daughters. Hans Anderson attended the common schools of Denmark and in
1872 came to this country, landing at Low Moor on May 14th, and has since
made Clinton his home. He has always farmed, having been reared in Den-
mark as a farmer. In the spring of 1902 he purchased the farm of one hun-
dred and forty acres, where he now lives, fertile land, which he has improved
by erecting excellent buildings. He has followed general farming and stock
raising, has been a good manager and has found his work pleasant.

Mr. Anderson was married in 1872 to Mary Nelson, who has borne to him
the following children, all living : John, Anna, David and Fred. Mr. Ander-
son and his wife are Lutherans and his children have been reared in that faith.

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 88 1

He is a Democrat and, while not an aspirant to office, his neighbors have such
confidence in liini that they elected him township trustee. He is a man whose
life speaks for its true worth in his daily actions, and there his neighbors find
it recorded and bear testimon}' to his nobility and integrity.

OTTO KORN.

Realizing the fact that success comes, sometimes belated, but eventually
to the deserving. Otto Korn, well known and popular baker of Clinton, Iowa,
early in life began to shape his course to a goal that would mean financial
ease in later life and the establishment of an unblemished reputation among
his fellow men, and though yet a young man he has made rapid strides in that
direction.

Mr. Korn was born in Davenport, low^a, ]^Iarch 24, 1879, and he is the
son of Henry and Elizabeth (Allheit) Korn, both natives of Germany, the
father born in 1838 and the mother in 1840. Henry Korn grew^ to maturity
in the fatherland and w^as educated there, learning the baker's trade, which
he continued to follow after coming to America, having emigrated to Daven-
port, Iowa, when a young man. That he was an expert in his chosen line is
partly evidenced from the fact that during the Civil war he w-as a baker in
the commiss'ir}- department of the Union armv. After the close of the war
he started a bakery of his own in Davenport, Iowa, wdiere he is still engaged
in business, his bakeiT being perhaps the best in Davenport and which has
been popular and well patronized for upwards of forty years. His wdfe is
also still living. Otto Korn, of this review, is the youngest of a family of
seven children, named as follows : William, Charles, Harry, Lena, John,
Bertha and the subject.

The father and his five sons are all bakers and they own and conduct
five prosperous bakeries in their respective cities and they are all very ex-
tensively patronized and are regarded as the best in eastern Iowa and Illinois
in every respect, being sanitary, kept scrupulously clean, equipped with the
latest and most approved machinery and necessary appliances, and a very
extensive outside trade is also enjoyed by each. Only the best of material
is used, and none but proficient and high class employes are to be found in
any of their plants.

Otto Korn, the immediate subject of this review, received his education
in the schools of Davenport and from the time that he was a small boy he

(56)

882 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

worked in his father's bakery, in fact, grew up in the business, and when yet
a young man had mastered its numerous details, learning the business "from
the bottom." He worked at home with his father until 1907, when he moved
to Clinton and started a bakery of his own at No. 230 Fifth avenue. It was
not long until he was doing a big business, for the people of this city liked
his goods and his trade has grown wonderfully. In 19 10 he purchased a lot
back of his store and erected a modern, \vell equipped and model bakery, for
the old bake-shop could not handle the trade. He has also a very large ship-
ping business over Iowa and Illinois.

Mr. Korn is a Mason in his fraternal relations, being a member of the
DeMolay Consistory of Clinton. He also belongs to the Turner society.

Mr. Korn was married on April 14, 1906, to Amanda Flindt, who was
born and reared in Davenport and attended school there, being the daughter
of a highly respected family there. This union has been without issue.

WILLIAM MacQUIGG.

In giving the life record of Dr. William MacOuigg, whose name for
many decades was a household word in Clinton county, Iowa, the publishers
of this work believe that it will be an incentive to the young who may peruse
it to lead nobler lives, have higher ambitions and accomplish more for their
fellow men, for his life was always led along a plane of high endeavor, al-
ways consistent with the truth in its higher forms and ever in keeping with
honorable principles Besides being n physician and surgeon of widespread
reputation and great skill and ability, he was a public spirited citizen and his
influence in the general progress of this county was potent and salutary. He
was the scion of ])ioneer ancestors of the most sterling qualities who did
much in their day for the communities in which they lived, and Dr. MacOuigg
was a worthy descendant of his forbear, thus for many reasons, not the least
of which is the fact that he was one of the patriotic sons of the North, who,
when the tocsin of war sounded, left his hearthstone and business to do what
he could in saving the countr}'- from treason, he is gladly given conspicuous
representation in this work.

The Doctor w^as born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, May 14, 1831, and
he was the son of James and Margaret (Dunlap) MacOuigg. They were both
born in Scotland, and in a very early day they left the land of thistle and blue-
bell and crossed the broad Atlantic in an old-fashioned sailing-vessel, and
located in Philadelphia. They were young people when they left their native

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 883

heath and were not married until after the\- had located in the City of
Brotherly Love. James MacOuigg" was an architect, which calling he fol-
lowed successfully for many years, in fact, devoted the major part of his life
to this calling and was a very skilled workman and a good business man. He
spent his life in Philadelphia and died there, giving his attention exclusi\-ely
to his work and to his family, never aspiring to be a public man, always pre-
ferring- a quiet retired life. He was a man of upright principles and enjoyed
the confidence and esteem of a wide circle of friends, as did also Mrs. Mac-
Quigg, a woman of fine attributes. They were the parents of six children,
five of whom are living.

Dr. William MacQuigg received a good common school education in his
native city and early in life decided to take up the medical profession and
began pre])arations for the same, graduating in i860 from the Cle\'eland
(Ohio) Medical College, where he made an excellent record. Coming west to
Iowa, then a frontier state, he located at the town of Camanche, in 1852. and
when he completed his medical education he returned there and remained until
1866, when he mo\ed to Lyons, Clinton county, this state, and remained here
up to the time of his death, having enjoyed a very liberal patronage from the
first. For over fifty years he ranked with the leading ])hysicians of north-
eastern Iowa, standing high in a community noted for the high order of its
professional talent. He always kept abreast of the times in all matters per-
taining to his calling, and was deeply versed in the same. Always a student,
he familiarized himself with the world's best literature, and, possessing an
excellent memory, he was one of the county's best historians, and it was in-
deed interesting to hear him recall incidents of the early days when this coun-
try was new, whose development he lived to see and take a prominent part in.
He was the oldest practicing" physician in Clinton county at the time of his
death.

Doctor MacOuigg proved his patriotism in 1862 by enlisting in the
Twenty-sixth Iowa Volunteer Infantry as surgeon and in this capacity served
very creditably for one year, when he was discharged on account of sickness.
After the war he returned to Canianche, and in 1866 located permanently in
Lyons, now a suburb of Clinton. In politics he was a Republican, and a
member of the Unitarian church. Fraternally the Doctor belonged to Lodge
No. 93, Masonic order, also the Consistoiy. He was formerly a member of
the Clinton County Medical Society, but retired several years ago.

Doctor MacOuigg married, on February 24, 1885, Hannah Altman, a
native of Pennsylvania, a ladv of culture, who has a host of friends here..

884 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

HORATIO RUSSELL DEXTER.

Among the residents of Clinton who have been long identified with the
citv and have watched and aided in its development for many years is Horatio
Russell Dexter, who since early youth has lived in the city, and during his
manhood has been an active participant in its affairs, being now ranked
among its leading business men. He was born in Oswego county, New York,
on May 21, 1853, the son of Parker and Mary Ann (Mason) Dexter.

Parker Dexter was born in 181 6, in Oswego county, New York. He
was a pattern maker and millwright by trade, and a master of these occupa-
tions, being expert in both lines. In 1859 he came to Clinton county, Iowa,
and followed his trade for some time. Later he organized a cigar box fac-
tory, for which there were then many facilities in Clinton, on account of the
many saw mills and the readiness and cheapness \vith which the culled lum-
ber from the mills, suitable for this work, could be obtained. In this busi-
ness he prospered, but finally his factory was destroyed by fire and he retired
from active pursuits, and died in 1890. In politics he was a Republican, and
for some years held the office of city marshal, the duties of which he dis-
charged in a manner which reflected credit upon himself and satisfied the
citizens of the city. Parker Dexter was a man well known in the city, had
many friends, and wielded considerable influence in local affairs.

Horatio Russell Dexter received his education in Clinton, where he grew
to manhood. He early began work in Lamb's sawmills as saw filer, and later
was promoted to the management of the planing mill of the C. Lamb & Sons
Company, thus gaining his apprenticeship in life in the same establishment
with many of Clinton's present prominent citizens. In 1888 he entered the
service of the Chicago & Northwestern railroad as a brakeman, and continued
in that capacity for nearly fifteen years. In 1902 he started in business at
No. 902 South Fourth street, and has since prospered. In 191 1 he purchased
the three-story building, Xo. 920 Fourth street, where he conducts his cigar
business and has fitted up the second and third stories for an up-to-date room-
ing house, which is modern in e\erv respect. He always keeps on hand a
full stock of fine and up-to-date goods, and his fixtures are substantial and of
approved modern pattern, while his satisfied customers are at once his best
advertisement and the best evidence of his success. Fraternally he is a mem-
ber of the Knights of Pythias, and in his daily life exemplified the teachings
of that order. In politics he is a Republican, and in religious affiliations a
Methodist. For two years he was chief of Clinton's excellent volunteer fire
department, and is a member of the A. H. Smith Hose Team, which held the
state championship of Iowa for two years.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 885

Mr. Dexter was married in Octol;er, igoo. to Lucy Tlionias. a nati\-e of
Clinton, who was born in 1863. Two children have been born to him,
Chancy A., now in Chicago, and Sarah Allen, in school. As a keen business
man, a social companion of high order, and a citizen who takes much interest
in the good of the community, Mr. Dexter ranks high among the residents of
Clinton.

FLOYD L. SUNDERLIN.

No person in this country today exercises such influence as is wielded
by the editor of a newspaper, therefore it is of the utmost importance to the
welfare of the countr}- that these men shall be men of intelligence and incor-
ruptible honesty, for they are in the truest sense leaders of the public. Were
all the newspaper editors men of the type of Floyd L. Sunderlin, the interests
of the public would be most zealously guarded and the leadership would be
in trusted hands.

Floyd L. Sunderlin. the editor and publisher of the Delmar Journal and
of the Maquoketa Record, was born in Sunderlinville, Potter county, Penn-
sylvania, on November 30, 1857, the son of Samuel and Laura A. (Barney)
Sunderlin. His mother, now deceased, was a lady of superior intellect, of
wide reading and of excellent literary ability. She was the author of two
volumes, "Pencilings from Lnmortality" and the ''Lyric of Life." She was
the mother of three children, a son, Floyd L., and two daughters, Mrs. C. B.
Jones, of Ames, Iowa, and Mrs. A. L. Pulver, of Moline. Illinois.

Floyd Sunderlin came west with his parents in 1863, received a common
school education, and then took up the study of law and was admitted to the
bar in 1879. In 1887 he entered the field of journalism, for which he seems
especially fitted, by establishing the Delmar Journal. Having prospered in
this venture, he, in February, 1906, purchased the Maquoketa Record, and
now edits and publishes both papers. He is a clear and forcible writer and
fearlessly advocates the principles of right and justice, never hesitating to
strike wrong a blow. Both his papers have a large and constantly increasing
circulation and a reputation in keeping with the character of their editor.

In 1884 Mr. Sunderlin was married to Stella Barter, of Calamus, Iowa.
To this union one son was born, Ray Sunderlin, now of Cripple Creek, Colo-
rado. The mother died in 1885. In 1892 Mr. Sunderlin married Mae
Scott, of Delmar, Iowa, who has borne him four children : Howard, Gertrude,
Olive and Edith, bright and interesting young folks. Mr. Sunderlin is an
active member of the Masonic lodge at Delmar, has filled many of the offices,

886 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

and in his life exemplifies the noble principles of the order. Editor Simderlin
is a man in whom the people have peculiar confidence, because of his square
and uncompromising stand in the face of whatever does not agree with his
conceptions of honesty and equity. Well-known in the communities in which
his papers circulate, he is a citizen whom they could ill afford to lose. .

GEORGE E. WILSON.

Among the honored and influential citizens of Clinton, Iowa, is George
E. W'ilson, who has shown what an earnest, energetic and hardworking man
can accomplish, although forced to hew his own fortune from obstacles that
beset his way. He started life without financial aid from anybody; has been
industrious, and has adhered to those principles and ideals that always insure
success, so that his twilight years are being passed in the midst of plentv and
serenity.

]\Ir. Wilson is an American by adoption only, being by birth one of our
esteemed English cousins. He was born in England, March i8, 1847, the son
of George and Eliza (Roberts) Wilson. His mother died in England, after
which his father brought the family to the United States in the year 1856,
settling near Rockford, Illinois, where he became well established and prom-
inent. He was a man of sterling characteristics and was highh^ respected.
He met death in a railroad accident near Rockford in 1892.

George E. Wilson, the subject of this review, was reared on a farm, where
he remained until about seventeen years of age. In his youth he also worked
in a reaper factory and a flour mill, and later learned the foundry and machine
business. He spent the period after the war in Louisiana and Alabama, and
shortly thereafter went to Beloit. A\'isconsin, where he was with the ]\Ierrill
& Houston Manufacturing Company for two years. Later he located in
Sterling, Illinois, where he was engaged in the foundry and machine business
for several years. In 1892 he purchased the Clinton Bridge & Iron Works, at
Clinton, Iowa. This company is one of the leading concerns of the state and
is too well known to require lengthy description here. Under Mr. Wilson's
able and judicious management it has maintained an envied position in the
industrial world. Its business is constantly increasing.

Mr. Wilson came to America at the age of nine. He was the only son of
a family of four children. Of an ambitious and studious nature, he has be-
come, by home study and actual contact with the world, a highly educated man

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 887

in many branches. Mr. Wilson is an interesting conversationalist on current
topics, possessing" a broad and general knowledge.

Mr. Wilson was married, Jnne 4, 1871. to Hannah Marie Fitzmaurice,
daughter of John and Abbie Louise Fitzmaurice. Mrs. Wilson's parents came
from the north of Ireland and settled near Belvidere, Illinois, where she was
bom. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Wilson has been blessed by the birth of five
children, named as follows: Louise, who is at home: George E.. Jr., h^rank E.
J. Fred and Orrin A. The latter is Pacific coast agent of the Clinton Bridge
& Iron Works at San Francisco. The other three sons are connected with the
Clinton office. The four sons and father constitute the board of directors of
the company.

Mr. Wilson manifested his loyalty to his adopted country during the
great crisis in the sixties by forsaking the pleasures of home and offering
his services during the Civil war by enlisting in the Fifty-second Illinois Volun-
teer Infantry, Company E, about six months before Lee's surrender, but owang
to the fnct that the war was drawing to a close he was not permitted to see
active service. Twice before this enlistment he had run away from home to
become a soldier, but his father interfered each time, owdng to his youth. He
won his father's consent in the end.

Mr. Wilson is a member of all the different Masonic bodies of the York
and Scottish rites. He has always taken an active interest in the progress of
Clinton and vicinity and has ever stood ready to do his full share in the work
of upbuilding this locality in any way. He has always manifested an abiding
interest in county, state and national affairs, and is regarded by all who know
him as a high-minded, progressive man. While living at Sterling he served
very acceptably as alderman, during which time many of the public improve-
ments of the city were inaugurated.

In addition to his private interests, he is president of the Merchants
National Bank of Clinton, which institution is regarded as one of the most
popular, safe and conservative banks in eastern Iowa. Mr. Wilson's home is
at No. 306 Sixth avenue.

FRED REIMERS.

Among the many enterprising citizens that the German empire has sent
to Clinton county, the name of Fred Reimers should be mentioned, for he has
lived here for over a quarter of a centur\', during which time he has become
well established, ranking among the leading farmers of his community and
he has maintained an unassailable reputation. He was born in Germany on

888 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

April 17, 1857, and is the son of Clans and Katrina (Aufers) Reimers, na-
tives of the fatherland, where they spent their lives. The father was a laborer
and he served as a soldier in the German army, according to the law and cus-
tom in that country. He made a splendid record as a soldier in the war of
1848. He spent his life engaged in whatever honest labor he could find for
a livelihood, having no special profession.

Fred Reimers grew to maturity in Germany and received the usual com-
mon school education. Until he reached the age of twenty-five years he
worked as a laborer on various farms in the old country. In 1882 he emi-
grated to America, locating in Davenport, Iowa, where he remained two
months, then moved to Clinton, this state. He worked on a farm the first
year after his arrival here, after which he worked in Lamb's saw-mill for three
years. After that he began renting farms. He saved his earnings and in
1895 he purchased two hundred and twenty acres in Lincoln township, which
is his present home, and on which he has made many improvements, including
the erection of substantial and convenient barns and other buildings, making
this one of the most desirable farms in every respect in the township. He has
l>een very successful as a general farmer and stock raiser, always keeping some
good stock. The German Lutheran church holds his membership and he is a
liberal supporter of the same.

Mr. Reimers was married on February 6, 1883, to Rebke Solkerwig,
who was born in Germany. She accompanied her sisters to this country
when voung. This union has resulted in the birth of the following children :
Annie, Christina, Emma and Wilhelmina.

Mr. Reimers is a well informed, far-seeing and capable man of affairs,
a verv fair example of the first generation from the old country, who by econ-
omy and hard work develop good farms and comfortable homes for their
descendants. He has always been a hard worker and is never idle.

JOSEPH CROSSETT YOUNG.

This utilitarian age has heen especially prolific in men of action, clear-
brained men of high resolves and nol)le purposes who have given character
and stability to the communities which ha^•e been honored by their citizenship,
and whose influence and leadership have been easily discernible in the various
enterprises that have added so greatly to the high reputation which Clinton
county enjoys among her sister counties of this great commonwealth. Con-

JOSEPH C. YOUNG

r THEf NEW TORK

PUBLIC LIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX, AND

TILMN FOUNDATIONS

R L

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 889

spicnous among this class of men, whose Hfe work lias been terminated l)y
the fate that awaits all mankind, bnt whose influence will still continue to
live, was the late Joseph Crossett Young, for his history and that of this
locality are very closely interwoven and it is safe to say that no man was more
prominent or did more for the general upbuilding of this vicinity than he. His
memorv is honored and revered by a host of citizens who knew him or of him
and his industrious, public-spirited and generous life. This is as it should l)e,
following the old aphorism, "Honor to whom honor is due."

Joseph C. Young was born November i, 18 11, in Onondaga county, New-
York, the scion of a sterling old family of the Empire state, being the son of
Rev. Seth and Elizabeth (Crossett) Young. He was reared on a farm and
received such education as he could in the early schools of his native county.
He went to Detroit, ^Michigan, in 1838 and l)Ought land near there, but he sold
the same in i'339 and returned to New York and there engaged in the grocery
business for eight years. Believing that the newer country west of the ^Nlissis-
sippi river held greater advantages for one of his temperament, he came to
the present tlndving city of Clinton. Iowa, when there was nothing but a corn-
field here, and he erected a house where Fourth avenue now intersects with
Second street and here went into the grocery business. He \vas successful
from the first, and later he built the Young block, at the corner of Second street
and Fifth avenue. He saw and took part in the growth of the town in all
its phases and took a delight in the same. Being successful as a merchant and
business man, he acquired a competency, becoming in due course of time one
of the substantial and prominent men of the county, and he spent the latter
years of his life in retirement.

~\h'. Young was united in marriage with Sarah J. Stilhvell, August 2,
1834, and this union was blessed with the following children : Charles M.,
Harriet. Emerson K. (the latter a Methodist minister), and ^\'illiam E., whose
sketch appears on another page of this work. The mother of these children
passed to her rest on June 9, 1877, and Mr. Young was again married, Decem-
ber 6, 1884, his last wife being Laura F. Berrien, of Clinton. She was born
in New York City, August 24, 1850, and came to this city when young.

Joseph C. Young was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church and
he took much interest in religious affairs. The first Sunday school class meet-
ing here was held at his home. He was a member of the first council of the
city of Clinton, and he was also mayor of the city for two terms. Politically,
he was a Republican and was loyal to its principles.

This worthy, and in many respects remarkable, patriarch was gathered

890 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

in the fullness of his years to the reward of his merits on June i, 1906, leaving
behind Iiim the rich remembrance of a blameless life to become the inheritance
of his children and his children's children forever, while he sleeps the sleep of
tlie just.

MALCHI KANE MADDEN.

The character of a community is determined in a large measure by the
lives of a comparatively few of its members. If its moral and intellectual
status be good, if in a social way it is a pleasant place in which to reside, if its
reputation for the integrity of its citizens has extended into other localities,
it will be found that the standards set In' the leading men have been high and
their influence such as to mould their characters and shape the lives of those
with whom they mingle. In placing Malchi Kane Madden in the front rank
of such men, justice is rendered a biographical fact recognized throughout
Clinton county by those at all familiar with his history. Although a quiet and
unassuming man, with no ambition for public position or leadership, he has
contributed much to the material advancement of the community, while his
admirable qualities of head and heart and the straightforward, upright course
of his daily life have tended greatly to the moral standing of the circles in
which he moves and given him a reputation for integrity and correct conduct
such as few achieve.

Mr. Madden was born in Ireland, December 7, 1844, of an excellent old
family of the Emerald Isle, being the son of ^Michael and IMary (Kane) Mad-
den, also natives of Ireland, where they grew to maturity, and \vere married.
They emigrated to America in 1847 ^^^^ settled in Portage, Wisconsin, when
the subiect was three years old, and there continued to reside until their deaths,
the mother passing away in 1877 and the father in 1880. They worked hard
and established a good home in their adopted countiy, and, being kind and
honest, were popular and highly respected among their neighbors.

Malchi K. Madden grew to maturity at Portage, Wisconsin, and received
a good education in the common schools there, spending his early life on the
farm for the most part. He came to Clinton county. Iowa, in 1871 and
entered the business world as a merchant at Lyons, in partnership with his
brother, and carried on a very successful and ever-growdng business for a
period of thirty-three years, during which time he was an important factor in
the life of the town and became widely known. He did not remain long in
partnership with his brother, buying his interest in 1875, carrying on the busi-
ness after that wnth the assistance of his wife. He ^vas burned out in 1883,

CLIXTOX COUNTY^ IOWA. 89 1

but, nothing- daunted, he started up again, buying the building erected by A. B.
Rodman, in which he continued the grocery business until 1904, when he sold
out to Fredericks & Quinn, both of whom had clerked for him.

On November i, 1874, Mr. Aladden was united in marriage with Marga-
ret Carvel, who was born at Providence, Rhode Island, the daughter of Wil-
liam and Mary (Davy) Carvel, who came to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1858 and
settled on a farm twelve miles west of Lyons, where they lived for many years,
becoming well established and were highly respected. They are both now
deceased, the mother dying in 1877 ^^^*^ the father in 1900.

Mr. and Mrs. Madden are pleasant people to know and it is a privilege
to share their old-time hospitality in their beautiful and pleasant home. Hav-
ing no children of their own, they adopted two children, a boy and a girl, the
latter, Winnifred Duhrm, being the eldest; the other, Frank Cook, is now "m
the United States navy, now sending his twelfth year. The daughter is mar-
ried and lives in Monmouth, Illinois.

Mr. Madden has alwavs been a veiw industrious and busv man and, al-
though a life-long Democrat and interested more or less in party and public
affairs, has never been an aspirant for office himself. ^Irs. Madden leans
strongly towards woman suffrage ; she is a well read, refined and ])leasant
lady and has been of great assistance to her husband in his life work. They
are both devoted members of the Catholic church and are members of the
Royal Xeighbors of America and the Mystic Circle, the furmer an auxiliary
of the Modern Woodmen of America and the latter of the Woodmen of the
World, Mrs. Madden having been banker of the Mystic Circle for seventeen
years, and she was also guardian of the Woodmen of the World. They are
both prominent in local lodge, church and social life and number their friends
only by the limits of their acquaintance.

BENJAMIN BROXAM.

Americans are not hampered by the shackles of class distinction and it is
ever\^ one's privilege to build the structure of his life as he sees fit. This gives
us what is often termed the self-made man, a good example of which is found
in Benjamin Broxam. a well known and highly esteemed citizen of Maquo-
keta. Jackson county, Iowa, whose interests were long identified with Clinton
county and who is eminently desendng of a conspicuous place in the history
of the latter, owing to the fact that he came here when the country was new
and assisted ven.^ materially in the general upbuilding of the same and led a

892 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA,

life of industry, honesty and one well worth emulation by the younger genera-
tion whose destinies are yet to be determined by the future.

Mr. Broxam comes to us from our sister country across the Atlantic, his
birth having occurred in Lincolnshire, England, May i, 183 1, and now in the
serene Indian summer of his years, after a long and strenuous life, he can look
backward with no regrets, since he has always done the best he could in all
the relations of life. He is the son of Benjamin and Rebecca Broxam, both
natives of Lincolnshire, England, where they spent their lives, having never
come to America. The father was a shoemaker by trade. They were the
parents of six children, of whom Benjamin of this review was the oldest.
Mr. Broxam had been married before, to which union twelve children had been
born, making eighteen children in both families.

Benjamin Broxam began work when only five years of age, his duty being
to keep crows and other birds from the corn fields and prevent them from
destroying various crops on the place. He spent his early life on the farm and
received what education he could in the neighboring schools. It was in 1852
that he came to America, locating in Ohio, where he remairfed one year and
then came to Rock Island, Illinois, in 1853 where he located, but soon there-
after entered one hundred and twenty acres in Welton township, Clinton
county, Iowa, then returned to Rock Island and worked on the railroad until
the spring of 1857, when he moved to his farm in Welton township, and soon
began breaking the raw prairie land and making general improvements, build-
ing a small frame house. As he prospered, he began adding to his original
purchase until he owned a \aluable farm of two hundred and eighty acres
which he placed under a high state of improvement and reaped abundant har-
vests from year to year. He continued to live there until 1892, when he re-
tired from active farm Hfe and moved to Maquoketa, Jackson county, where
he now resides in a cozy and attracti\'e home, modern and neatly furnished.
He still owns his farm, whicli is one of the best in the community and which
shows that a gentleman of excellent judgment has had its management in
band. Politically, Mr. Brox?m is a Democrat, but he has ne\'er held office.

Mr. Broxam was married about i'858 to Mary Lynch, who was born in
Belmont county, Ohio, about 1833, and to this union three children were bom:
Charles, who died in 1895, at the age of thirty-four years; Helen died in 1885
at the age of twenty- four years ; they were not twins, but their birthday came
within the same year; Albert L., who was born in 1864, was educated in the
public school, also at the normal school at Dixon, Illinois, and at the College
of Pharmacy at Des Moines, Iowa, from which institution he was oraduated,
after which he worked ir. a drug store at De Witt. Clinton count}', for some
time ; he then came to Maquoketa, Jackson county, where he also clerked in a

CLINTON COUNTY,, IOWA. 893

drug store for some time and about 1892 he bought an interest in the store of
Walter Dow, where he had been working. Later Mr. Dow sold his interest
and the firm name became Broxam & Hinkley, which has remained the same,
these gentlemen now conducting the largest drug store and carrying the most
complete drug stock in Maquoketa.

In 1904 All)ert L. Broxam married Alice Langridge. daughter of a well
known Baptist minister of ^^'aterloo, Iowa. This union has been without
issue.

]\Irs. Benjamin Broxam, wife of the subject, was called to her rest in
1895. The members of this family have always borne a most excellent repu-
tation and are popular in the various communities where they have resided.

EDWARD E. YOUNG.

In naming those who have borne their full share in the upbuilding of
Center township, Clinton county, mention must not be omitted of Edward E.
Young, for he has there exerted a strong influence for good, being a man of
upright principles and desirous to see the advancement of the community
along moral, educational and material lines.

Mr. Young was born on August 16, 1865, in this county, and he is the son
of John A. and Martha Ann (Cox) Young. The father was born in Orange
county. New York, June 8, 181 5, in which year the family removed to Penn-
sylvania, where John A. received his education. In 1848 he emigrated to
Oakland county, Michigan, where he remained eight years, when he moved to
Iowa and located on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres near Elvira, where
he spent the rest of his life, dying August 4, 1899, his widow surviving until
March 16, 1903; they are buried in the cemetery at Elvira. The father was
a man of much prominence in this county, well known and highly honored.
He was a member of the sixteenth and seventeenth General Assemblies of
Iowa, as re]Dresentative on the Democratic ticket, ser\ing his c()unt\' for four
years in a manner that elicited the hearty approval of his constituents. In
i860 he was elected to the office of supervisor, which position he held six
years. AMiile in his twenty-fifth year he was elected captain of the Shippens-
burg troop, an old cavalary company which had sensed in the war of 1812
and during the time of his captaincy offered its services for duty in the
Mexican war. These parents were members of the Presbyterian church, and
their family consisted of nine children, four sons and five daughters, named
as follows : Florence, deceased; ]\Iarv, wife of A. M. Kellev; Anna, who was

894 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

file wife of Rev. T. ^^^ Hamilton, is deceased; Sarah is the wife of W. L,
Niver; John. James, Echxard, Charles A., and Hattie, wife of S. B. Kelley.

Edward E. Young, of this review, spent his boyhood on the farm and
received a common school education. He was married on February 14, 1893,
to Elizabeth Goddard, daughter of John and Mariam Goddard, both natives
of England, from which country they came to America about I'S/o, locating
at Clinton, Iowa, where Mr. Goddard engaged in the mercantile business.
His death occurred in June, 1897.

Mr. and Mrs. Young began their married life on his present farm, which
he had rented of his sister, Mrs. Kelley, whose husband was killed on the
tower of his feed wind-mill, having his leg crushed and he remained without
help for an hour while the mill continued to grind, the men below not know-
ing that he was fastened in the machinery above. In 1904 Mr. Young pur-
chased his sister's farm, the Kelley place, which consists of three hundred and
twenty acres of fine farming land, which has been extensively improved and
ranks with the best farms of the community. Besides general farming Mr.
Young is an extensive feeder of stock, and he has numerous barns, sheds and
outbuildings in whicli to properly care for them. His residence is a very com-
fortable and neat one. He buys and feeds many cattle and hogs, and he is
very successful in all his operations. He is a good judge of all kinds of stock
and is well known as a stockman throughout the county. He is honest and
stands high in the community.

Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Young, namely : Clarence,
born September 28, 1895 ; Ethel, born November 21, 1896; Claude, born June
27, 1898; Gladys, born August 6, 1902.

WILLIAM R. TRAVER.

One of the well known and progressive citizens of Camanche township,
Clinton county, is William R. Traver, a man who has worked long and hard
to advance himself along lines that are consistent and seldom fail to bring the
reward sought. He comes of one of the old and honored families of this
county and his birth occurred here on November 9, 1862. He is the son of
Rufus and Mary J. (Balentine) Traver. The father was born in 1832 and
the mother in 1834, the former a native of New York and the latter of Ohio.
They came to Clinton county, Iowa, about i860 and purchased a farm of one
hundred and sixty acres in Center township and engaged in general farming,
becoming well established here. Rufus Traver was a very successful business

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 895

man and took much interest in local affairs. He served his township as
assessor, tax collector and justice of the peace, filling each position with much
credit for a number of years. In 1895 he retired, purchasing property in
Clinton, where he moved and where he now resides. He is a member of the
Congregational church, and, politically, is a Republican. Five children were
born to Mr. and Mrs. Traver, namely : Ella married Mr. Allen, of New York
City; Daisy is now Mrs. Hill, of Clinton county; Roy L. lives in Clinton,
where he has a position in a bank; Carroll B. lives in Chicago; William R.,
of this review. The mother of these children died on February 17. 191 1,
and is liuried at Elvira.

The boyhood days of the subject of this sketch were spent on the farm
with his parents. He received a good common school education and later
took a business course at Ouincy, Illinois. He was married on April 27,
1888, to Mariah Mahen, daughter of George and Mary Mahen, of this county.
Her parents were natives of Ireland. They came to America and settled in
Clinton county on a farm in Center township. They retired and made their
home in Elvira in 1889. purchasing a home there and they spent the remainder
of their lives in that place. George Mahen was born May 10, 1818, and died
February 28, 1895 ; his wife was born May lo, 1833, and died March 5, 1899.
and they are both buried at Elvira cemetery. Mr. Mahen began life without
means, but by his industry and good management he accumulated a very
valuable estate and became the owner of six hundred acres of land. His
family consisted of five children, namely: Roger M. ; Ella, now Mrs. Crapser;
Minnie, who married a 'Sir. Cromer, is deceased; Kate, now Mrs. Kelley ;
Mariah is the wife of AA'illiam R. Traver of this review: there are also two
half brothers and a h^lf sister.

Mr. and Mrs. William R. Traver began their married life on rented land
and in 1896 he purchased his father's farm, which is still his home. It con-
sisted then of one hundred and sixty acres. He has added to this as he has
prospered until he now has a very fine farm of three hundred and twenty
acres, consisting of as choice land as Camanche township affords. Part of it
lies in Lincoln township, adjoining. He has made extensive improvements on
his land, all modern and up-to-date. He is regarded as one of the leading
farmers and stock raisers in the township. For a number of years he has
engaged in breeding and raising Polled-Angus cattle, of which he has a choice
herd. They are eagerly sought for owing to their superior quality.

^\r anfl ^Irs. Tra\"er are members of the Lutheran church, and, politi-
cally, he is a Repulth'can. They have no famil}- of their own. Tliey took her
sister's child when it was two weeks old. its mother ha^•ino^ died, and thev have

896 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

adopted him. Frank Cromer was born October 19, 1903. They also have
given his sisters, Leda Marie and Maiy Margaret, a home in their family.
They are much attached to these children and give them every chance to be-
come worthy citizens.

PETER CHRISTEXSEN.

From small beginnings Peter Christensen, a well known citizen of Olive
township, Clinton county, has gradually attained a prominence in this locality
which entitles him to be regarded as one of its worthiest citizens. No asper-
sions can be made on any action of his during a pilgrimage of nearly forty
years here, during which time he has seen his community grow and has taken
a great interest in the general development of the same. Like many of our
leading farmers, he comes to us from Norway, having been born in that
country in 1840, the son of Chris Hansen and Bertha (Johns) Christensen,
both natives of Norway, where they were reared, educated and married, and
in which country the father died. His son Peter grew to maturity there and
was educated in the common schools and when twenty-one years of age, in
186 1, his mother brought him to America, coming direct to Calamus, Clinton
county, Iowa. Here the son began working out. He was a hard worker and
economical, saved his earnings and was in due course of time enabled to pur-
chase eighty acres of land where he still lives, having, however, added to this
until he now has an excellent farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which he
has brought up to a high state of improvement. He has a good substantial
home and outljuildings. his place being well improved in every way, all of
which, or most all. he has done himself. He has lived here all the time since
coming to America with the exception of three years, from 1898 to 1901, spent
in Minnesota. He there owned two hundred and eighty acres of land and
raised grain very extensively. He is a general farmer and stock raiser and he
is a stockholder in the Farmers Bank at Calamus. He has been very success-
ful as a business man, having managed well and persisted along lines which he
deemed worthy to be followed and wrought out.

]\Ir. Christensen was married in 1867 to Anna Ludwigson. who was
born in 1844 in Norway, from which country she came to America with her
parents in i860 and located in Clinton county, Iowa; later they went west.
This union has resulted in the birth of the following children : Bertha
A^ergensen, Walter, Elizabeth, Christ (deceased), Mary Mason, Irene Mason,
Rena, Lena, Irena and Anna. Mrs. Christensen died in 1892 and was buried
in the Lutheran cemetery, in Olive township.

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 897

This family are Lutherans in their rehgious belief, and Mr. Christensen
is a Republican and has held some of the township offices in a way that re-
flected much credit upon himself and to the satisfaction of all concerned. He
was school director for some time and also road boss.

ANDREW JACKSON RIGGS.

Andrew Jackson Riggs, a retired farmer of Maquoketa. Jackson county,
Iowa, was born near Lyons, Wayne county. New York, June 21, 1832. He is
the son of John and Alma (Growls) Riggs. The father was born April 11,
1798, in New Jersey and was the son of John Riggs, Sr., who in 1799 moved
his family to Wayne county, New York, and bought a tract of timber land of
the Holland Purchase Company. This tract of timberland is now a part of
the city of Lyons, John Riggs, Sr., sold the land and purchased another
tract, where he lived until his death.

John Riggs, Jr., was reared on the farm and assisted his father in the
cultivation of the same. He had a brother-in-law named Hull, who was a
colonel during the war of 18 12, in the American army, and while home on a
furlough took John Riggs, then a boy, along with him to the lines and he there
served as tre Co'oneFs l^ofiv-servant. Lie Carried a rnnsket v-ith the rest of
the soldiers and became something of a pet among the men of the army. He
remained with the army until the close of the war. Returning to his home
at the expiration of that time, he remained there a time and then \vent to
Canada, where he was emnloyed in the lumljer regions. He spent seven years
in this vicinity and then returned to his old home.

In 1826 John Riggs, Jr., married Alma Growl, who Was born in Cayuga
county, New York, May 11, 1807. Directly after their marriage they went
to Allegany county, where he bought timber land, built a small house of
logs, cleared and cultivated the farm. About 1831 he returned to Wayne
county and settled on his fathers farm and there he remained until 1837,
W'hen, fired with the western fever, he came to the territory of Iowa, via the
Erie canal to Buffalo, by the lakes to Cleveland, thence by the Ohio river
to the Mississippi river and un the Mississippi to Burlington. At that city
the family spent the winter. During this wdnter the subject, A. J. Riggs, saw
Chief Black Hawk, who used to go into Burlington for supplies. While the
family remained in Burlington John Riggs and a timber man from Indiana
tramped overland to Maquoketa, Jackson county, low-a, to find a brother of

(57)

898 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

the former, Reuben Riggs, who owned a farm and log house on the hne be-
tween Chnton and Jackson counties. John Riggs returned to BurHngton and
in the spring took steamboat and went up the river to Lyons, which then con-
tained but three houses; from there he went by boat to Sabula, and came
through the country on foot to his brother s log cabin. Accompanying him
on this journey was his wife and six children, one, C. R. Riggs, being but
three years old and another a babe of six months, whom they had to carry.
The subject was but five years old, and he had to walk. Mr. Riggs entered
land in section 6 in what later became Bloomfield township, Clinton county,
and he was the first white settler in the township. He erected a log house
on this land and there he lived until 1849. He, as was the case with hundreds
of others, was drawn toward California in the year last mentioned and while
en route was taken sick and died, being buried near Elkhorn rix'er. He was
survived by his wife and eight children, namely: George W., Ashley C, John
H., Andrew J., Charles R., DeWitt C. (these children having all been born in
New York and brought by their parents to Iowa), Ann (born in i'840 in
Clinton county), Zachary T.

Andrew J., the subject, and Zachary T. "Riggs, residing at Biloxi, Missis-
sippi, are the only surviving members of the family. Mrs. Riggs, the mother
of these children, departed this life March 8. 1899.

As before stated, Andrew J. Riggs was but five years old when he ac-
companied his parents to Iowa. He was seventeen at the time of his father's
death and he assisted his brothers in the managing of the home place, residing
on the old homestead until 1864. He was married in that year and located in
1865 on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres at Riggs Station, Waterford
township, Clinton county. He bought this land in 1854, then wild prairie,
and began the cultivation of it. The first eighty acres was all under cultiva-
tion by i860. He planted shade and fruit trees and built a set of frame build-
ings. Later he added other land to his original purchase and at one time
owned two hundred and eighty acres in Waterford township. In 1865 he
also owned one hundred and sixty acres in Minnesota. He at one time owned
the townsite of Monticello. Minnesota, and also owned between one thousand
and fifteen hundred acres of land in various counties throughout the state of
Iowa. In 1896 he retired from active farm life and bought a modern resi-
dence in Maquoketa, Jackson county, Iowa, where he at present resides.

Mr. Riggs' domestic life began in 1864, on March 13th of which year he
was united in marriage with Eliza Jane Mullholland, who was born at Auburn
Center, Ohio, March 15, 1844. She is the daughter of Rev. Richard and
Eliza E. (Abbey) Mullholland. He was born in Londonderry, Ireland, of

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 899

Scotch-Irish parentage, in the year 1823. At the age of sixteen he came
to America and turned his attention to the attainment of an eckication. He
was graduated from Brighton (Ohio) College, when twenty-three years of
age and became a minister of the Methodist Episcopal church. In June. 1843,
he married Eliza E. Abbey, who was born in Auburn, Ohio. 1826. In the
spring of 1852 they moved to Iowa and he acted as supply preacher for con-
gregations near Preston and Charlotte, Clinton county. He bought eighty
acres of Mr. Holroyd, a pioneer millwright who located about two miles west
of Preston. In 1853 he joined the Iowa conference and was assigned to the
Jackson county circuit. He traveled and preached in different counties in
Iowa and in 1856 came back to Maquoketa. and opened a boot and shoe store
in partnership with another man, but he failed in this and in 1858 went to
California overland. He followed just behind the Mountain Meadow massa-
cre and in company with an emigrant train from Texas who crossed the place
of the massacre a few days after the awful event happened. He remained
in California for four years and on account of failing health returned to
Maquoketa, where he died September 11. 1863. He was a member of the
Masonic and Independent Order of Odd Fellows lodges. He left a wife and
one child, who is now Mrs. Riggs. Mrs. Mullholland returned to Portage
county, Ohio, in the fall of 1864 and died there on March 8, 1885.

Mr. and Mrs. Riggs became the parents of two children. Elmer Els-
worth Riggs, born February 16. i86f^, died September 7, 1893; ^^ ^^^^^ ^^^^'
vived by his wife, but no children. Lindus L. Riggs, born August 29, 1868,
graduated from Maquoketa high school in 1887. He taught school at Riggs,
Clinton county, and various other places for fourteen terms. Later he became
the successor of his brother, Elsworth. agent of the Chicago, Milwaukee &
St. Paul Railroad at Riggs, where he remained four years. In the fall of
1900 he entered Keokuk Medical College and was graduated in 1904, engaging
in the practice at Maquoketa, Iowa, but in 1905 went to Jefferson Medical
College of Philadelphia, from which he was graduated in June, 1906. As a
surgeon he has gained much prominence and since 1907 has conducted the
Maquoketa City Hospital, which he owns. January i, 1908, he married
Elizabeth Hurst, daughter of Hon. Alfred Hurst, of Hurstville, Jackson
county, Iowa. They have one child, Ralph LeRoy Riggs.

Mrs. C. I. Riggs is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr,
Riggs. though religiously inclined, is not a member of any church. Politically,
he is independent.

Andrew J. Riggs has a flint-lock musket and bayonet made in 1809 and
carried in the war of 1812 by William Birch. At the close of the war the

900 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

subject's father bought the gun. Mrs. John Riggs gave the gun to the sub-
ject's oldest son, who is now deceased. Mrs. Riggs owns and has in her
possession an account book, w^hich has been handed down from one generation
in her father's family to another. The first account now recorded in the book
is January, 1755. One of the items is "One Pint Whiskey at 11^ cts."
This book was in the Mullholland family and was written in Ireland.

■ A. T. Riggs' two brothers served through the Civil war. Charles R.
Riggs, who enlisted in Company L, Second Cavalry, and went in as orderly
sergeant and served four years, eight months and ten days and was discharged
as captain. He was provost marshal of Bolivar Parish, Mississippi, for eight
months. Taken prisoner while resting along the roadway in Missouri, in
1862, and remained a prisoner for three months, when he was exchanged.
De Witt C. Riggs enlisted in the Thirty-first Iowa Volunteer Infantry from
Maquoketa. He was commissioned as second lieutenant March 31, 1863,
and promoted first lieutenant September 23, 1864. He resigned on account
of disability from bowel trouble in the fall of 1864. Another brother, Ashley
C. Riggs, enlisted at Dubuque, Iowa, in a regiment of dragoons in 1847. ^^^
was ."ssigred to dr,ty at Fort Atkinson, Iowa, serving until the close of the
Mexican war.

Mrs. A. J. Riggs, who lived at Maquoketa during the w^ar, assisted in
making the flags of the companies (five in number) which left Maquoketa.
Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Riggs adopted a young girl aged ten by the name of
Minnie C. Albright. She was born October 14, 1865. Her father, who was
a widower, gave his permission for her to live with them until she was eigh-
teen ; she remained until she was twenty-four, when she married Levi T. Allen,
of Miles, Iowa, on March 13, 1890. He died on January 12, 1897, leaving
his wife and one daughter, Laura A. Allen, born September i, 189 1. Els-
worth L. Allen was born March 5, 1893. Since her husband's death Mrs.
Allen and her children have made their home with Mrs. Riggs, 'with the ex-
ception of four or five years.

In the year 1895 the subject fitted c ut a circus for his son Dr. L. L.. brt
on account of the hard times then prevailing, the circus failed in 1896. Mrs.
E. J. Riggs is a beautiful writer of poetry. She wrote for many years for
the Clinton County Advertiser.

THEODORE C. RITTER.

One of the successful and well liked farmers of Orange township, Clin-
ton county, is Theodore C. Ritter, a man who is eminently deserving of the
success that has attended his efforts owing to the fact that he has w^orked hard

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CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 9OI

along legitimate lines and has always led a life of honesty and shaped his
course to goodly ends.

Mr. Ritter was born in Rock Island county, Illinois, March 31, 1856, and
is the son of Leonard and Theresa (King) Ritter, the father a native of
Prussia, Germany, and the mother born in Bavaria, Germany. They were
educated and married in their native land and came to Rock Island county,
Illinois, in about 1845. They subsequently moved to Clinton county, Iowa,
and settled on a farm two miles west of Grand Mound, Olive township, on
two hundred and eighty acres, and here they lived until their deaths. Their
family consisted of four sons and four daughters, of whom seven are now
living, Mrs. John P. Saddler being deceased ; she lived at De Witt, this county.
Politically, Leonard Ritter was a Democrat and he and his family were mem-
bers of the Catholic church.

Theodore C. Ritter, of this review, was reared on a farm and was edu-
cated in the public schools of Olive township. He worked in Davenport for
some time on a delivery wagon for the CaWe Lumber Company. He later
turned his attention to farming, and he is now the owner of an excellent
farm of one hundred and sixty acres one and one-half miles north of Grand
Mound. Orange township, on which he'^arries, on general farming and stock
raising. He has put excellent improvements on his place, and has a very
comfortable home. He always keeps some good stock which he prepares
for the market. ...

Politically, Mr. Ritter is a Democrat and he has long taken considerable
interest in local affairs. He was constable of his township for two years, fill-
ing this office to the satisfaction of all concerned. He and his family are
members of the Catholic church.

Mr. Ritter was married on April 14, 1884, to Mary J. Martin, a native
of Clinton county, Iowa, and the daughter of Thomas and Jane (Halpin)
Martin, early settlers of Scott county, this state. To this union two sons
and four daughters were born, namely : Loretta, Raymond, William. May,
Genevieve (deceased) and Bernadine (deceased). The mother of these
children died December 24, 1900. Her parents were both born in Ireland,
from which country they came to Davenport, Iowa, when there were only a
few houses in that place. They came to Clinton county, this state, in 187*8,
and located on two hundred acres of land and here the father died on April
II, 1896, the mother dying in about 1897. Nine children were born to them,
five of whom are living. This family were Catholics and in politics Thomas
Martin was a Democrat.

902 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

JOHN WILLIAMS.

No better evidence of fidelity to duty, upright character and popular per-
sonality could be secured than a continuous service with one concern for a
period of thirty-two years. That is the length of time that John Williams,
one of the best known men in railroad circles in Clinton county, has been in
the employ of the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad Company, and he has
always been regarded as one of their most trusted and faithful employes,
always ready to discharge his duties to the best of his ability and with no
thought of shirking or misrepresenting the facts. As a result of such char-
acteristics he has not only Won the confidence and respect of his employers
and associates in railroad circles, but also of all with whom he has come into
contact and he is in every way deserving of the high respect in which he is
held.

Mr. Williams was born at Sterling, Illinois, July i6, 1866, and he is the
son of Michael and Mary (Pendergast) Williams. The father was born in
county Kings, Ireland, April 10. 1826, and the mother was born in county
Queens, Ireland. They were married in England in 1853 and came to
America in 1855, locating in Chicago, where they resided a short time, then
came to Sterling, Illinois, at the time the Chicago & Northwestern railroad
was being built through there, and the father assisted in the work of laying
the tracks into Sterling. After a short time he entered the coal and grain
business in which he remained for a period of thirty years, doing a large
business and becoming widely known in that country. He lived retired dur-
ing the last few years of his life, and died at his home in Sterling, on Novem-
ber 10, 1903. His widow is still living. Fourteen children were born to
them, ten of whom are living, four being deceased. Michael Williams was a
Democrat and an earnest worker in the party, but he refused to be a candidate
for office many times. He gave his large family a good education and pro-
vided \vell for them. He lived a rather quiet and retired life. He was a
faithful Catholic, an excellent business man, a generous giver to St. Mary's
Catbolic church, of Axhich he was a member, nnd he was greatly missed in his
community, his death being lamented by all classes. He had one daughter at
the time of his death who was a prominent musician in Kansas City, Missouri,
but she is now deceased. She was a nun of the Order of Charity and was
mother superior of an Indian mission in Michigan.

John Williams was educated in the public schools of Sterling, Illinois, and
when a boy he began working for the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad Com-
pany, beginning carrying water at the age of twelve years. He went from

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 9O3

that to the roundhouse, then became switchman, fireman and engineer, having
been an engineer since 1886. As stated above, he has spent his Hfe in the
service of this road.

Pohtically. Mr. WilHams is a Democrat and both he and his wife are
memljers of the Catholic church. He belongs to the Knights of Cokimbus
and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers.

Mr. Wilhams was married on December 31, 1896, to Ellen Murphy, of
Anamosa, Iowa, the daughter of Patrick and Ellen Murphy, who came to
America in a very eirly day and settled in Connecticut, in which state thev mar-
ried, subsequently coming to Iowa. Mr. Murphy devoted his life to farming.
Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Williams. Marie, now twelve
years old. and Laurence, aged ten.

RUDOLPH FREDERICK SIEMSEN.

Among the substantial farmers of Berlin township, Clinton county, Iowa,
is the well known gentleman whose brief biography is presented in the follow-
ing lines. Rudolph F. Siemsen is a native of Holstein, Germany, where his
birth occurred on the 15th of August. 1855, being one of twelve children,
whose parents, Henry and Dora Lucy Siemsen, were also born and reared in
that province. Henry Siemsen spent his entire life in Holstein and died in the
year 1869; his wife, who survived him. is still living and resides near the place
where she first saw the light of day. Six of their children also survive, three
in Germany and three in the United States.

Rudolph Frederick Siemsen spent his childhood and youth on the farm
which his father cultivated, and enjoyed the advantages of a common school
education. While still young he learned the bartender's trade and in 1878
entered the German army, with which he served until 1881. In 1882 he came
to the United States, going via the isthmus of Panama to San Francisco,
California, thence to Washington territory, where he remained for two
years, during which time he lived principally in what is now Garfield county
and supported himself by various kinds of employment. At the expiration
of the period indicated he came to Scott county, Iowa, where he remained
from August. 1884, to March of the ensuing year, when he went to Omaha,
Nebraska, thence, after a short time, to Council Bluffs, in which city he was
in business until his removal to Atlantic, Cass county, this state, in 1889.
Disposing of his interest in the latter place he went to Billings, Montana, but
not being satisfied with conditions there, soon returned to Iowa, and during

904 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

the two ensuing years lived in Cass county, where he had formerly been in
business. .

On October i, 1891, Mr. Siemsen was married in the town of Atlantic
to Lena Husmann, a native of the same German province in which he was
born, and immediately thereafter engaged in farming in Cass county, where he.
continued to reside until 1899, when he sold out and went to the state of
Washington. After remaining a year there, he came to Clinton county, Iowa,
and bought a tract of land in Berlin township, on which he has since lived and
prospered.

Mr. Siemsen has had quite a chequered, but. in the main, successful.
career. He now has a finely improved farm, a beautiful and attractive home
and is in comfortable circumstances, with every assurance of a prosperous
career in the future. He is veiy industrious, manages his affairs judiciously
and manifests commendable interest in all matters of importance to the com-
munity in which he resides. In politics he is independent, being allied to no
party and using his judgment in the matter of voting, giving his support to
the candidates best qualified for the positions to which they aspire. In religion
he holds to the creed of the Lutheran church, in which both himself and wife
were reared, and since becoming a resident of Clinton county, he has been,
quite active and influential in the local church to which he belongs. He is a
pleasant gentleman, courteous in demeanor and his popularity extends to the,
limits of his acquaintance. He has many warm friends who prize him for the
sterling worth of his character and he uses his influence on the right side o.f
ever}^ moral issue. Mr. and Mrs. Siemsen have two children, Freda Rosa
and Lena Alarguerite Marie, who, like their parents, are popular with their
friends and acquaintances.

ALBERT A. BARBER.

■:•!:■-■>

" ' ' ^ ■ ,■ '.

Having been born and reared in Orange township, Clinton county,, and
since reaching manhood's estate identified with large agricultural interests of
this community, it is not strange that A. A. Barber should be widely and
favorably known within the confines of the territory in question. ;Hi.s career
has been marked with success at almost every turn. . . •.

The date of Mr. Barber's birth was 1853 ^"^ he is the son of Nathaniel
Barber, a full sketch of whom is to be found elsewhere in this work. Suffice
it to say here^ that he comes of one of the excellent old pioneer families of this
county. . . _t . .,

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 905

Mr. Barber was educated in the home schools and when but a mere lad
was put to work in the fields and he has spent his entire life on the home
farm, which is a rare privilege, for the assocations of the old homestead are
always pleasant. He has thus always farmed, and, having grown up to this
line of endeavor, he has mastered every detail of general husbandry and his
efforts have been attended by a large measure of success. He has one of the
best farms in this part of the county, consisting of four hundred and ninety-
five acres, all in Orange township comprising two farms, one of one hundred
and sixty-five acres and the other of three hundred and thirty acres. He has
kept the places well improved in every respect and has tilled the soil with
such care as to keep it up to its original strength and productiveness. Besides
general farming, he has always devoted considerable attention to stock rais-
ing, always keeping an excellent grade of stock. Other interests have also
claimed his attention and it was he who organized the Farmers Mutual Tele-
phone Company of Clinton in 1902; he became president of the company,
which office he still holds to the credit of himself and to the entire satisfaction
of all concerned, in fact, his judicious and able management has been respon-
sible for its large success, and it is rapidly growing in importance and popular-
ity.

Mr. Barber is a Republican in politics, and he has long taken more or
less interest in local affairs, having been assessor of Orange township for a
period of six years, was trustee of the township for a period of four years,
has been local school director for many years and was census enumerator in
1900. As a public servant he has been very faithful in the discharge of his
duties.

Mr. Barber was married on May 3, 1877, to Laura C. Simmons, who was
born and reared in Orange township and educated in the local schools; her
family has long been a highly respected one here. This union has resulted
in the birth of one son, Earl G., who is assisting his father with the work on
the farm ; the son is a member of the Modern Brotherhood of America and he
is a very promising young business man. He married Elsie Smith, of De
Witt township, the daughter of Henry F. and Louisa (Hoehne) Smith. Her
parents came from Germany to Clinton county in an early day and are num-
bered among its respected and influential families. The elder Barber is also
a member of the Modern Brotherhood, — in fact has been its secretary from
its organization to the present time. He also belongs to the Knights of
Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and he and his wife are
members of the Rebekahs.

906 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

JACOB SCHROEDER.

A German community always seems to be a prosperous one. The Ger-
mans have such a combination of racial qualities as to be well adapted to all
situations in life. The traveler in Iowa can usually recognize the German
community by its appearance, the neatness of the buildings, the general air of
good repair and the thriftiness of the crops and stock. The farm which Mr.
Schroeder owns presents to the passer-by a particularly attractive picture, for
he is an exceptionally good farmer even among the exceptional farmers of his
township.

Jacob Schroeder was born in Germany on March i8, 1866, the son of
Andros and Catherine (Pruring) Schroeder, both natives of Germany, where
Andros Schroeder died in 1870, and his widow is now living. They were
the parents of five children, four of whom are living, and were much honored
and respected persons. Their son Jacob received his education in Germany,
and came to Scott county, Iowa, in 1885, seeking to try his fortune in a newer
continent of wondrous possibilities. Later, in 1885, he came to Clinton
county, and in 1901 bought eighty acfes of land, in 1904 forty more, and has
added until he now owns two hundred acres of splendid land. His farming
is general in character and he gives much attention to stock raising. Nearly
all of the buildings and improvements on his fann have been put there by him-
self. In religion he adheres to the Lutheran faith of his fathers.

Jacob Shroeder was married in 1891 to Aup'usta Blunk. a native of
Germany, She has borne to him four children, Hugo, Laura, Freda and
Matilda. Mrs. Schroeder died in 1898, and Mr. Schroeder was married in
1 90 1 to Mrs. Mary Erbs, of Clinton county, by whom he is the father of one
child, Willie.

Mr. Schroeder is much respected by those who know him, as a man of
good judgment and reasoning powers, and a successful farmer, while his oblig-
ing nature has made for him many friends.

JOHN W. SIMON.

Success has been worthily attained by John W. Simon, of Center township,
Clinton county, for he has led an active and useful life along lines that seldom
fail to win the goal sought. He was born on July 23, 1869, in this county, and
is the son of George and Mary Simon, natives of Lincolnshire, England, where

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 907

thev grew to maturity and were educated. From that country they came to
America in 1851. locating in Illinois, where they remained for a few months,
then moved to Clinton county. Iowa, and bought a farm near Low Moor,
which he sold after a residence of two years and purchased other land nearby.
He soon traded this for the farm on which his son, John W. of this review, now
resides and there the elder Simon and his wife spent the remainder of their
days, the father dying on November 21. 1906, at the age of seventy-eight years,
the mother having passed away in 1S99. at the age of seventy-one years, and
they are both buried at the Elvira cemetery. The first farm which Mr. Simon
purchased consisted of eighty acres and to this he added thirty-six acres in
section 12, Center township, and he became a well-known farmer and stock
man. He fed many cattle for the market, kept his farm well improved and
was very successful. He became well known and was highly respected among
the early settlers of this county. He and his wife were members of the Meth-
odist church, and they were the parents of eight children, two of whom died in
early life; Robert W. also is deceased; those living are Mary, wife of F. Hes-
kett, of Kansas; Lizzie, of Lincoln township, the wife of Robert Bray; Ellen
Simon. Bessie Simmons and John Simon.

John Simon, of this review, received a good education, first attending the
common schools, then the Clinton Business College, also the normal school at
Fulton. He was married on February 14, 1906, to Nettie Thomas, daughter
of William and Eliza Thomas, of this county. Her parents were natives of
Wales and they came to America in 1870, with their parents, who later located
in Clinton county, Iowa, and they were married in 1874. They were members
of the Methodist Episcopal church. The father has devoted his life to farming
and he and his wife are both living. They are the parents of four children.
Mrs. Simon was born August 3, 1877.

Mr. and Mrs. Simon began their married life on the farm where they now
reside, the old family homestead, which Mr. Simon purchased from his father.
It consists of two hundred and forty acres and is one of the most desirable
farms in this locality. He has made many improvements and has kept it in
first class condition in every respect. He has a cozy and attractive home, car-
ries on general farming and stock raising and feeds a great many cattle, being
regarded as one of the leading farmers and stock men in his community. He
is a public spirited man, is well posted on current events and employs all modern
methods in farming, being very successful.

The following children have been born to ]\Ir. and Mrs. Simon : Marie
Elizabeth, born February 10, 1907; Edith May, born December 4, 1907; Ethel
Fay, born the same date, being a twin of Edith May; Robert William, born
May 28, 1909.

•908 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

ARTHUR WOOD BLUNT, M. D.

In time of sickness and need the ph3^sician is the closest friend to his
brother man. He, even more than members of any other profession, has an
opportunity to do real good, in relieving actual physical pain and suffering.
The troubles which he heals are of a different class from those which the
lawyer and minister find it their province to mitigate, and are of a more sub-
stantial and intimate nature. He alone of all has the power to stay the hand
of death and prolong the number of our earthly years.

Arthur Wood Blunt was born in Dalton, Georgia, July 30, 1854, the
son of John E. and Augusta (Wood) Blunt. His paternal grandfather, A.
E. Blunt, was a native of New Hampshire, his wife of Connecticut. They
moved South in an early day to Dalton, Georgia, where Mr. Blunt engaged in
the mercantile business. Doctor Blunt's father married in Newburyport,
Massachusetts, and went to Georgia, to practice his chosen profession, that of
c'v:l\ engineer. Coming north at the breaking out of the war, he moved to
Wisconsin and was engaged in the employ of what was then the Old Galena
& Chicago Union railway which soon became a part of the Chicago & North-
western railway system. He continued in their employ until two years ago,
when having given his time and attention to the railroad work for a period
of forty-eight years and rising to the position of consulting engineer, he was
retired on a pension. He still resides at Evanston, Illinois. He was the
father of six children, one of whom is the vice-president of the Merchant's
Loan and Trust Company of Chicago. All of the children except one are now
living.

Doctor Blunt was educated at Wheaton College, Illinois, receiving his
Bnrhelor of Arts deeree in 1873. ^"^^ his Master of Arts degree in 1876. He
then entered the Chicago Homeopathic College and graduated in 1878. For
a time he was house physician in the Homeopathic Hospital, then spent two
years in Winona, Minnesota. He came to Clinton, May i, 188 1, where he
has remained in practice ever since. He is now the longest resident physician
in Clinton. His practice has been extensive and successful. In politics he
is a progressive Republican. He is a member of the Woodmen of the World,
the Royal Arcanum, the American Institute of Homeopathy and the Hahne-
mann Medical Association of Iowa and secretary of the Rock River Institute
of Homeopathy. He is also a member of the staff of Agatha Hospital of
Clinton. The Congregationalist church includes the Doctor and his wife
among its members.

Doctor Blunt was married on October 4, 1883, to Alice A. Mullett, a

ARTHUR W. BLUNT, M. D.

THE ^^W YORK
PUBLIC LIBUAUY

ASTOR, lENO^' A^B
TILDEN FOUNDATIONS

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CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 909

native of Indiana, who has borne to him two children, Eugenia and Valeria.
He is a man of splendid personal character, broad culture and liberal educa-
tion. He has kept up with the latest advances in the school of medicine to
which he belongs and stands high among his professional associates. He is
possessed of the traits of character which gain and keep friends, and is much
esteemed generally, both at home and abroad.

CHAUNCEY SPENCER HARRINGTON.

The life portrayed under the present heading shows plainly the oppor-
tunities which the farm affords, and shows that there one may pass as useful
and pleasant a life as at any other place or in any other occupation and may
be as successful there as anywhere else, whether success be measured by the
amount of property accumulated or the character which a man builds. Farm-
ing leads into other allied businesses often, as in the case of Mr. Harrington,
and many of the most successful business men in the smaller towns and cities
have passed the earlier portion of their lives in farming.

Chauncey Spencer Harrington was born in Otsego county. New York,
October lo, 1830, son of Stukely and Elizabeth Harrington. (For their his-
tory see sketch of Andrew L. Harrington.) His boyhood was little different
from that of most farm boys, and was spent in attending the schools of his
township in the winter and working in the summers. As a young man he took
up farming and was also concerned in lumbering operations in his home
county. On October 5. 1866, he came to Clinton county, Iowa, to which his
parents and brother had preceded him. Here he was very extensively en-
gaged in farming, and also was a large grain dealer. He owns five hundred
and fifty-seven acres of good farm land in Clinton county and other property
in De Witt, and in his days of activity was reckoned as one of the best farmers
in the county. He is also a business man of rare judgment. In politics he
was a Democrat before the formation of the Republican party, but was after-
wards a member of the latter party, and, while taking a becoming activity in
politics, has never cared for office. He is a member of Right Hand Lodge No.
281, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons; of Kilwimming Chapter No. 56,
Royal Arch Masons; of Holy Cross Commandery No. 10, Knights Templar,
and of the thirty-second degree in Clinton Lodge, DeMolay Consistory, of

910 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Clinton, Iowa. He has always taken great interest in things Masonic and has
exemphfied its teachings in his Hfe.

Mr. Harrington was married on December 25, 1855, in Genesee county,
New York, to May Comstock, daughter of Gideon Comstock, who died in
New York. Mrs. Harrington died August 19, 1907, after having been a
faithful wife for nearly fifty-two years. Mr. Harrington has now retired
from active business.

He can look back over a life of more than usual achievement and worth.
He is a man the worth of whose character is unquestioned, and one whose
neighbors speak of only in the highest terms. Such citizens the county can
well be proud of.

WILLIAM NEWMARCH.

An industrious and substantial farmer of Eden township, Clinton county,
is William Newmarch, who owes his birth and kindred to the great, historic
and romantic "merrie isle," our sister country across the deep and dark blue
Atlantic. He is English by birth and descent and is the possessor of the many
sterling characteristics commonly attributed to the people of that country.
By adoption he is an xA.merican citizen, sturdy and progressive, whose life of
nearly a quarter of a century in this locality has won him the respect of his
neighbors and an excellent landed property.

Mr. Newmarch was born on November 30, 1848, in Lincolnshire, Eng-
land, and he is the son of George and Susanna Newmarch, both born, reared
and educated in England, and they spent their lives in their home country.
The father was born on April i, 1824, and his death occurred on June i, 1898;
the mother was born on May 10, 1819, and died December 9, 1896. They were
the parents of seven children, namely: Mar}^ born April 9. 1847: William, of
this review; Charles, born August 25, 1850; Susanna, born February 20, 185 1 ;
Eliza, born December 16, 1853; George, born February 18, 1856. They are
all living except George.

William Newmarch grew to maturity in his native land and was educated
there. When a young man he conceived the idea of making his home in
America, having heard of the excellent opportunities that are open to every
one here, and accordingly he emigrated to our shores in 1886, reaching here
in June of that year, coming to Low Moor, Clinton county, Iowa, where he
remained two months, then located in Elvira, where he remained six years;
he then moved to Goose Lake, where he remained three years, then moved
back to Eden township and lived upon the farm owned by Ben Dannett, for

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 9 II

six years. Then in 1900 Mr. Newmarch purchased the Humphrey Bowhers
farm of two hundred and thirty-four acres, lying in a fertile section of the
county west of Low Moor two miles, and he has since resided here. He has
engaged in general farming and stock raising in a manner that indicates that
he is a gentleman of good judgment and management, and he has laid by a
competency for his old age, having one of the best farms in the tow^iship in
every respect. He keeps some excellent live stock of various kinds, which,
owing to their excellent ciuality, find a very ready market when he ofifers them
for sale. He feeds for the market each year. He has an attractive and
pleasant home and he built a large and convenient barn and has added many
other modern improvements on his farm.

Mr. Newmarch takes much interest in the affairs of his community and
he has been school director and president of the local school board for a period
of three years, w^hich position he filled very creditably and acceptably. Fra-
ternally, he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He and his
wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he is a trustee
and steward and a liberal supporter of the same.

]\Ir. Newmarch was married in November, 1861, to Betsy Hack ford,
daughter of William and Elizabeth Hackford, natives of England. Her
death occurred on January 15, 191 1, and she was buried in the cemetery at
Camanche. She was highly respected and her funeral was attended by the
lodges of Odd Fellows and Rebekahs as a mark of esteem.

Mrs. Newmarch's parents had eight children, of whom three are living.
The mother is living in England, having attained the remarkable age of ninety-
two years. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Newmarch, of
whom three are living, namely: Walter, born on September 18, 1873, married
Jemima Pearson and they have five children, Lester, Clarence, Bernett,
William and Mabel. Walter Newmarch lives upon his farm of one hundred
and sixty acres near Malone, this county. Fannie Newmarch, born March i,
1886, is the wife of H. W. Galitz, of South Dakota, and they are the parents
of four children, William F., Vera G., Alice and Fern. George William New-
march, born September 22, 1887, manages his father's farm. The deceased
children are Eliza Ann, born March 29, 1871 ; John W., born September 10,
1872; Anther, born July 29, 1882, and May, born May 23, 1890, all of whom
died when young.

The parents of these children moved to Low Moor in 1907. where they
bought a good and cozy home and are now living retired, surrounded by
plenty as a result of their former years of industry and economy. They are
highly respected and have a host of warm personal friends, owing to the fact
that they have lived upright and kindly lives.

912 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

JUDGE PATRICK B. WOLFE.

The present review is concerned with the life of a man whose character
and abihtv are. by reason of his long and honorable connection with the
practice of law, well known to the people of Clinton county and of the state
of Iowa, and whose extensive familiarity with his own county made him
especially fitted to serve as editor-in-chief of the histoiy of Clinton county.

Patrick B. Wolfe was born in Chicago, Illinois, on October 7, 1848, the
son of John R. and Honora (Buckley) Wolfe. John R. Wolfe was born in
county Kerry. Ireland, in 1824, the son of Richard Wolfe, who was the agent
having charge of the property of the Knight of Kerry. He received an ex-
cellent education. During his young manhood he helped to organize the
"Young Ireland" party. He left Ireland in 1848, coming to America, first
locating at Ottawa, Illinois. Here he remained on a farm until 1854, when
he moved to Clinton county, Iowa, to land near Lost Nation, which he had
entered the winter before, and lived there until his death in 1885, becoming
one of the largest landholders and most successful farmers of his township.
Mr. Wolfe did not take any great interest in politics. He was opposed to
slavery. In religion he and his entire family 'were stanch Catholics, and active
workers in the church.

John R. Wolfe was married in Ireland to Honora Buckley. She was a
member of a family prominent in the church and at the bar, Michael Buckley,
her brother, having been the leader of the Belfast bar for many years. The
Wolfe family were also prominent in the church and in law, so that it was
natural for the American descendants to turn to the bar in choice of a pro-
fession. Mrs. Wolfe died in 1888.

Mr. and Mrs. Wolfe were the parents of ten children, two of
whom died in infancy, and those who grew to maturity are the following:
James, a farmer near Lost Nation; Patrick B. ; Johanna, who is now Sister
Scholastica of the Order of Sisters of Mercy at Sioux City, Iowa; John, a
farmer at Melrose, Monroe county, Iowa; Maurice, a farmer near Lost Na-
tion ; Margaret, now the wife of Dr. D. Langan, of Clinton ; Katherine, the
widow of Judge T. D. Fitzgerald, of Montana, at one time president of the
Montana Senate, nov,- living in Clinton; and Richard B., an attorney at De
Witt. Clinton county, Iowa.

Patrick B. Wolfe attended the common schools of Liberty township,
Clinton county, for a time, then spent one year in the Christian Brothers
Academy at La Salle. Illinois. He was a student in the academic department
of Iowa State University for two years, then took a full law course from that

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 9I3

institution, graduating with the degree of Bachelor of Laws in 1870.
In January, 1871, he began the practice of law at De Witt, Clinton county,
Iowa, and for a few years suffered the proverbial hardships of the young
lawyer, but soon came into an extensive practice. In 1877 he formed a part-
nership with W. A. Cotton, under the name of Cotton & Wolfe, which con-
tinued until 1888. For four }-ears he served as attorney for the town of De
Witt, and was a member of the De Witt school board for fifteen years. In
1885 he was elected to the Iowa Senate, and served three sessions, resigning
from his position in October. 1891, when he was appointed judge of the dis-
trict court for the seventh judicial district, holding his first term of court in
November of 1891. He served on the bench until September i, 1904, when
he resigned to form a partnership in the practice of law with his son. It is a
unique fact that Judge Wolfe has resigned from every public office which he
has held. In 1899 he was nominated for judge of the supreme court of the
state of Iowa, and was defeated by a close margin. He is again a candidate
in 1910. His law office was moved from De Witt to Clinton in May, 1891,
and his residence was transferred in 1893. ]\Ir. Wolfe was a member of the
public library board of the city of Clinton.

Mr. Wolfe was married on May i, 1878, to Margaret Connole, the
daughter of Thomas and Hannah (Malone) Connole, who came from Ire-
land and located in De Witt. To this union three children were born. John
L. Wolfe was born in 1879; graduated from the Clinton high school; took
the classical course at St. Mary's College in Kansas, graduating with the
degree of Bachelor of Arts; took a post-graduate course in Georgetown Uni-
versity, Washington, D. C, receiving there his Master of x\rts degree, and
then took the law course there, and received the degree of Bachelor of Laws.
He spent a year in the University of Berlin, Germany, and in 1904 entered
into partnership with his father. He is now serving on his second term as
a representative in the lower house of the Iowa General Assembly. Mary
Wolfe was born on June 2/, 1881, and is a graduate of Sinsiniwa College,
of Wisconsin, and Trinity College, in Washington. D. C. One child died
in infancy.

FRANK SLAPNICKA.

Although Frank Slapnicka, a farmer of the vicinity of Low Moor, Eden
township, Clinton county, was born in Bohemia, he is not a "bohemian'' as the

(58)

914 CLINTON COUNTYj IOWA.

word is frequently used in America, meaning primarily an idler, dreamer, easy-
going fellow, for he has shown by his life of persistent industry that he is a
man who believes in doing things and in doing them well ; he has left nothing
undone whereby he might advance his interests and that of his family and
therefore he has succeeded, and now has a good farm and comfortable home.

Mr. Slapnicka's birth occurred on November 11, 1867, in Bohemia, as
stated above, and he is the son of Antone and Barbara Slapnicka, who came
to America with their five children in 1868, locating in Stevenson county,
Illinois. The father was a carpenter and cabinetmaker by trade and he worked
at the same after coming to this country. In 1870 he moved to Jackson
county, Iowa. In 1887 ^^^ located in Woodberry county and there spent the
remainder of his days, dying in December, 1892, at the age of seventy-seven
years. The mother survived him ten years, dying in June, 1902. They were
members of the Catholic church, and their family consisted of seven children,
of whom four are living, namely : Nolbert, of North Dakota ; Josephine is the
wife of John Scherer, living in Illinois; Rosa is the wife of W. B. Potter, of
North Dakota, and Frank, of this review ; the deceased are, Agnes, who died
young; Rudolph, who died in January, 1883, at the age of thirty-two years;
John, who died in January, 1893, ^^ the age of thirty-three years.

Frank Slapnicka was thrown on his own resources when veiy young, in
fact, he started out in life for himself at the age of eleven years, and for eigh-
teen years he worked as a farm hand. This early experience, although not
altogether pleasant, was good discipline and he was economical, saved his
money and at the age of twenty-eight he was enabled to buy a farm of one
hundred and sixty acres at forty-two dollars per acre. He has prospered by
reason of good management and has added to his original purchase until he
now owns an excellent farm of two hundred and eighty acres, which he has
placed under excellent improvements. In 1907 and 1908 he built a modern,
spacious and attractive residence and substantial and convenient barn, the
latter being one of the best in the county, in fact everything about his place
shows thrift and good management. He carries on general farming on an
extensive scale and devotes a great deal of time to his live stock, of which
he keeps a good grade of all kinds. He is conservative, painstaking, plans
well and is careful to execute his plans in a manner that will bring the re-
sults sought. He is certainly deserving of much credit for the ample com-
petency he has acquired, considering the discouraging situations that faced
him in his youth. He is one of the substantial and leading citizens of Eden
township.

Mr, Slapnicka was married on March 24, 1897, to Louisa B. Pelham,
daughter of Cyrenus and Charlotte Pelham, of this county, Mr. Pelham hav-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 915

ing come to Clinton county with his parents in the early settlement of the same,
and he is a well known and successful citizen. Mr. Pelham's family consists
of five children, of whom four are living, namely: Roy, of DeWitt, Iowa;
Orie, wife of C. Toba, of Scott county, Iowa; Deane. living in this county;
Elmer, deceased, and Louise B.. wife of Mr. Slapnicka. . Mr. Pelham is a
member of the Masonic order. His wife is also still living.

Mr. and Mrs. Slapnicka began their married life on their present farm.
They are the parents of four children: Rose L.. born April 29, 1898; Alay-
nard, born February 4, 1901 ; Margery, born January 2, 1904; Marion, born
October 6, 1907.

CORNELIUS H. PELHAM.

Each community has its own special individuality that gives strength of
character and builds for it a historical superstructure that makes the written
pages of record interesting and stamps the people who come into the public
notice with a peculiar place in the epochs of every-day transactions.

Cornelius H. Pelham was born at Malone. Clinton county, Iowa, July 30,
1874, and is the son of Henr\^ P. and Margaret (Dawson) Pelham. His
father came to this county in 1855 from Xew York state, of which they were
natives.

The father's paternal great-grandfather was of English descent and once
owned a portion of land where New York city now stands. His career was
brought to an untimely end by being killed in the Revolutionary war while
protecting his property, he receiving seven bullets in his body at the hands of
British soldiers. The father's grandparent, Henry Pelham, was married to
Margaret Gray, a descendant of the Pilgrim fathers, who located on a farm
in Greene county, New York. He died January 23, 1843, 'i"'^^ ^^'^^ survived
by eight children, four sons and four daughters. Cynenus Pelham, the grand-
father of the subject, was l^orn in that county. February 2, 1790, being one
of eight children all of whom lived to be over eighty years old. In early life
he was one who had the privilege of seeing the first steamboat on the Hudson
river. The grandfather married Melinda Stratton, of Delaware county. New
York, and came to Lyons and Clinton county, Iowa, in 1855, the year Clinton
was laid out. In 1857 he purchased land in Eden township which he improved,
making this his home. He died in 1890, at the age of eighty-three. The
deatli of his wife occurred in 1871, at the age of sixty-five years.

gi6 CLINTON. COUNTY, .IOWA.

■ The father was seventeen years old when he came to this country and
worked on the farm. He graduated in the common schools and was married
October 19, 1873. to Mrs. Margaret Gibson, who was twice married and by
her first marriage had two daughters, Eva M., wife of M. Dann, and Nellie,
wife of Thomas Clement. By her second marriage she has become the mother
of four children, Cornelius, Jay W., Rolla E. and Bruce L., all living. Mrs.
Pelham died on July 17, 1901, and was buried at Cherry wood cemetery. His
father is at present living on the farm, sixty acres of which w^as his first pur-
chase. He has three hundred and eighty acres of well improved land, which
under his industry and able management has become one of the best farms in
that vicinity.

Politically, Mr. Pelham was a Republican and cast his first vote for
Lincoln for President. He filled acceptably the offices of justice of the peace
and township clerk and was a member of the school board for twenty-five
years, showing that the people had confidence in him as an educational worker.

Cornelius Pelham received a common school education and was united
in marriage to Daisy D. Duke, daughter of Mathew and Rebecca Duke, of this
county, on October 27, 1887. Mr. Duke w-as a farmer, being, one of the
pioneers of this county. He was well known and noted as a public spirited
citizen. He was the father of five children, namely : Lucy, Ida, George, Daisy
and Arthur. Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Pelham : Arthur, on
the 26th of October, 1899, and Nyrol, born June 18, 1908. Mr. Pelham be-
longs to the Baptist church and his wife affiliates with the Congregational.
Politically he is a Republican.

As was the case with others. Cornelius Pelham was obliged to begin mar-
ried life on a rented farm, but after years of toil and successful management
he moved, on his present farm of one hundred and twenty acres on section
17. Eden township, devoting his attention to agricultural pursuits and stock
raising in which he is very successful.

PEDER INGEBRIGTHSEN.

The subject of this sketch stands in the front rank of successful men
in his township, having worked his own Way to this position. The time and
labor spent on his farm have proportionately rewarded him, until now he can
spend the remainder of his life surrounded by substantial comforts, enjoying
the confidence, respect and esteem of those who know him.

MR. AND MRS. PEDER INGEBRIGTHSEN

ir NKW "WB.K' j

t..%J LIBiURY I

Till) EN FO;
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CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 917

- ■ Peder Ingebrigthsen was born near Bergen, Norway, June i6, 1850, son
of Ingebr.igth and Anna (Petersen) Ingebrigthsen. His father died in
Norway, and his wife and family came to CHnton county, Iowa, about 1888
and she died at the age of eighty-six, in 1910, in Minnesota and was buried
near Truman, that state. Peder was one of a family of nine, seven of whom
are living. His father and the entire family were members of the Lutheran
church. Peder grew up on a farm in Norway, and was there educated. He
came to Clinton county, July 4, 1869, and began farming, buying one hundred
twenty acres in Olive township, to which he has since added forty more. He
has spent his life in general farming and stock raising, and was well rewarded
for the application which he showed. In 1906 he came to Grand Mound and
built a fine, handsome residence, one of the most modern and best in the town.
Here he has since lived retired. In politics he is a Republican, and was for
one term of three years trustee of his township. He and his family are
Lutherans. He was also president for nine years in Olive township and
served on the school board for fourteen years.

Mr. Ingebrigthsen was married on March 25, 1875, to Anna H. Mal-
manger, who was born in Norway, daughter of Hans T. and Inger (John-
son) Malmanger, who came to Clinton county in i860, and died there. To
their union have been born nine children : Annie, wife of Albin Westland,
of Davenport; Hans, deceased; Ingelena, wife of C. Nelson, of Olive town-
ship, living on his father-in-law's farm ; Hans, a graduate of Luther Academy,
Albert Lea, Minnesota, and a student of Ames College, Iowa, where he is
still attending; Irene, wife of John Wagner, of Olive township, a farmer;
Trena. wife of Bryngel Oleson, of Albert Lea, Minnesota, teacher in the
commercial department of Luther Academy ; Peder, deceased ; one who died
in infancy; and Grace, at home, still attending school at Grand Mound.

Peder Ingebrigthsen is a man who has many friends, and is especially
popular among those of his own nationality. He is a man of strong and
sterling character.

GEORGE P. KISTNER.

The old Keystone state has sent many of its best and most enterprising
citizens into the newer western states and, as a rule, they hive performd a
very commendable work in transforming the raw country into districts of
prosperity and beauty, for they are by nature people of industry, coming from

91 8 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

thrifty ancestors — the type that forms the bone and sinew of our republic —
and they are regarded as most welcomed newcomers wherever they settle.
One such is George P. Kistner, a prosperous farmer of Eden township, Clin-
ton county, Iowa. He was born in Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, July 15,

1849, and he is the son of Charles and Hannah (Ulsh) Kistner, the father
born in Berks county, Pennsylvania, in 1821 and resided there until 1842, when
he moved to Lycoming county and there he was married in 1845. I" June,

1850. he crossed the Mississippi river at Camanche, and the same year he pur-
chased a tract of land, one hundred and sixty acres, in Eden township, then
returned to Pennsylvania, where he remained two years. Mr. Kistner was a
carpenter by trade, which he followed prior to and for some years after com-
ing to Iowa. In 1857 he built a dwelling and outbuildings upon his land here
and moved upon the same, on which he resided until 1870 when he moved to
Low Moor and engaged in the general mercantile business for a number of
years. He then moved to Louisiana and engaged in the hotel business.
While on a visit to his daughter in Kansas City, Missouri, he was taken ill
and died there, having attained the advanced age of eighty-seven years, his
wife having died previously in Louisiana at the age of eighty-two years.
They were members of the Methodist Episcopal church. The elder Kistner
built the first school house in Eden township in 1856. He was a Republican
in politics. His home was in the path of the famous cyclone of June 3, i860,
and his house on his farm was completely demolished, but none of the family
were seriously hurt. A babe, four days old, that was lying on a pillow, was
blown into the yard, and found a few hours later, asleep on the pillow under
a pile of debris, not even wet by the heavy rain that followed the wind. The
first floor was left resting on the foundation, but the balance of the house was
gone and a horse was discovered walking around in the cellar, under the floor.

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kistner were the parents of seven children, namely :
Mary C, widow of William Cary ; Emmaline C, deceased, was Mrs. John Van
Epps ; Martin, Charles, Benjamin (the tornado baby, lived three years after
and then died with croup), and Nettie; Harry, of Louisiana, is engaged in the
mercantile business.

George P. Kistner, of this review, received a good education in the com-
mon schools and spent two years in school at Mt. Vernon. On January 9,
1873, he was married in Montgomery, New York, to Alice Fralick, daughter
of Elisha and Fannie M. (Vrooman) Fralick, who came to Clinton county,
Iowa, in 1868 and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, the present
home of Mr. and Mrs. Kistner, and since 1874 they have resided on the farm,
now making their home with Mr. and Mrs. Kistner, having attained the ages

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 919

of eighty-six and eighty-two years respectively. They are members of the
Alethodist Episcopal church and have a host of warm friends wherever they
are known. They are a fine old couple whom tq know is to admire and respect.

Air. and Mrs. Kistner began their married life in the state of New York
on her parents' farm, and they came to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1874 and live
on her father's farm. Mr. Fralick had built a good residence on the same ni
1886; it was then one of the best farm homes in the county and is still well
preserved. ^^Ir. Kistner has kept his place well improved and has been very
successful as a general farmer and stock raiser. He has paid particular atten-
tion to the breeding and raising of Holstein cattle, and he also runs a dairy
business, shipping his cream to Davenport where it finds a ver^^ ready market.
He believes from years of experience that the Holstein cattle are the best for
dairy purposes.

Mr. and Mrs. Kistner are both representatives of old settlers of this
county, the very best people in the county, in fact, and these families have for
several generations been influential in the life of this community. Mr. and
Mrs Kistner are highly respected and have a wide circle of friends, both here
and in the state of Xew York. They are the parents of two children, Nettie
and Fannie, both living at home; the former taught two terms of school in
Dakota very acceptably.

DANIEL THOMPSON.

A native of Canada, our sister nation, the young giantess of the north,
of wondrous resources, whose wheatfields, mines and lumber camps have
drawn to her many of the strongest and most courageous of our citizens, but
who in return has sent to us many of her own best blood, men who were fitted
to cope with all situations of life, of whom the man whose name appears above
and who fills a highly responsible position with one of the large manufacturing
plants of the city, is an eloquent example.

Daniel Thompson was born in Canada, August 12, 185 1, the son of
Donald and Mary (Mclntyre) Thompson, native Canadians of Scotch descent.
His father was a farmer and there lived and died. Of his ten children, five
are living. Daniel received his education in the Canada public schools and in
a commercial college. He came to the United States in 1870 and located in
Michigan, where he took up bookkeeping. He continued that for two years,
then went on the road for a time, later entering the hardware business in Mich-
igan. He was engaged in this until 1895, ^^''^^ then entered the manufacture

920 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

of harness at Chicago. About five years later, on July i, 1900, he came to
Clinton, bought stock in the Clinton Saddlery Company, and was elected to
the position of secretary-treasurer, which he still holds. Of this company C.
F. Curtis is president; C. F. Alden was vice-president until July 14, 1910,
when C. E. Goltman was elected to that position.

The plant is located at No. 901 South Third street, and has grown in
size enormously. At present it employs from seventy-five to one hundred men.
It manufactures harness and does a general jobbing business. At present its
shipping covers a territory extending over New" York, Indiana, Michigan,
Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Dakota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Kansas and Missouri.
When Mr. Thompson came here the factory employed, only fifteen to twenty-
five men and the volume of business has since then more than quadrupled.
Much of this increase has been due to the efforts and attention which Mr.
Thompson has given the business. Prospects for the continued increase of
operations and for the future growth of the plant are good. Mr. Thompson
gives his attention to his work to the exclusion of outside interests. In politics
he is a Republican, and held various municipal offices in Ovid, Michigan. He
is a member of the Masonic fraternity.

Mr. Thompson was married on June 10, 1870, to Sarah Erb, a native of
Canada, and three children have been born to them. Frank is in the factory
with his father; Minnie lives in Minneapolis," and Edna is teaching mathe-
matics in the Monmouth high school at Monmouth, Illinois.

Mr. Thompson's valuable traits of character have won for him the friend-
ship and esteem of many. He is a thoroughly equipped business man, well
fitted for positions of responsibility and management, having proved his capa-
bility in these lines.

B. H. A. HENNINGSEN.

B. H. A. Henningsen was born in Schleswig, Germany, November 5,
1826, the only son of Peter C. and Louise (Jessen) Henningsen; his mother
died when he was only five years old. He received an excellent education
in the schools of his native town and later studied law at Heidelberg and
Kiel. He was within two months of taking his degree at the latter univer-
sity when the troubles of 1848 broke out; the duchies of Schleswig and
Holstein declared their independence of Denmark and proclaimed a provi-
sional government, the population flew to arms, and almost the entire student
body deserted the university to join the forces in the field. Only a few weeks

B . H . /^ .HENNiriGSKN

THE KRV/ YORK

PUBLIC LIBilARY

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TiLDEN FOUNDATIONS

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 92 1

later the whole Student Corps, as it was called, was taken captive by the Danes,
in the engagement at Bau, and carried to Copenhagen as prisoners of war.
After seven months they were exchanged and Mr. Henningsen at once re-
entered the service, later winning his commission as lieutenant for bravery in
action. The struggle dragged on through the years 1849-50, until Prussia
and Austria intervened and forced the duchies to a humiliating submission ;
in consequence of this, thousands of the inhabitants chose voluntary exile
from their native land, the greater number emigrating to the United States,
where they furnished a valuable element in the German population, being gen-
erally recognized as examples of thrift, industry and integrity. A large
colony had settled in Davenport and through Scott county, and this drew
many others to Iowa.

Mr. Henningsen came to America in 1852. in company with a young
cousin, August Henningsen, and settled on a farm near Sabula, Jackson
county, of which they became joint owners; here also he was married, in
1853, to Elwine Schroeder, the affianced bride who had followed him from
the old country. There followed a dozen years of pioneer struggle and
hardship until, having sufficiently familiarized himself with the laws and
language of the country, Mr. Henningsen resolved to make his education tell
in lines more congenial to his ability, and at the close of 1864 he established
himself in Sabula as a notary public and conveyancer. The following year he
came to Lyons, succeeding the well known F. G. Heinrich in business ; he was
at once appointed justice of the peace and served as such for twelve years.
He was also for several years a riiember of the city council. Squire Hen-
ningsen, as he was then universally called, soon won a wide acquaintance,
and became perhaps the most trusted adviser of the Germans of Clinton
county. He was especially sought in probate matters, settling a large number
of estates with entire satisfaction to all concerned. His wise administration
of justice is well characterized by the following anecdote: Two quarrelsome
neighbors, having fallen out over some trifle, threatened to take the law to
each other: 'T'll go to Squire Henningsen about this," said one. ''No, not
to him," replied the other, "for he'll only give us a good talking to, and tell
us to go home and behave ourselves."

In 1877, M^- Henningsen was elected county treasurer and served four
terms with great acceptability; then he was for a. time president of the Mer-
chants' National Bank,, of Clinton, and still later rcropened his office at Lyons,
continuing active along his original lines of business until his sudden death,
on May 14, 1909, in. his eighty-third year. He was widely mourned in the
community of which he had so long been an honored and useful citizen.

922 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Mr. Henningsen was always identified with the Democratic party, but in
his later years took no active part in politics ; he never joined any lodge or
fraternal organization, his sole membership being in the German Association,
of Lyons, of which he was president for a number of years.

Mr. Henningsen's wife died in 1893, and the surviving members of his
immediate family are his four daughters, Louise D. and Henriette E., at
home, and Mrs. W. K. Boardman, of Nevada, Iowa, and Mrs. F. C. Brayton,
of Lyons.

CHARLES W. BEEBY.

There could be no more comprehensive history of a city or county or even
a state and its people than that which deals with the life work of those who
by their own endeavors and indomitable energy have placed themselves where
they well deserve the title of "progressive," and in this sketch will be found the
record of one who has outstripped the less active plodders on the highway of
life, one who has not been subdued by the many obstacles and failures that
come to every one, but who has made them stepping-stones to higher things
and at the same time that he was winning his way in the industrial affairs of
life gained a reputation for uprightness and honor.

The above paragraph was suggested by contemplating the eminently
useful, unusually active and altogether praiseworthy career of Charles W.
Beeby, one of the best known men in financial, industrial and social circles in
this part of Clinton county. He is mayor of the town of Charlotte, president
of the Charlotte Savings Bank, extensive agriculturist and stock-feeder and
shipper and candidate for state senator on the Republican ticket in 1910. A
broad-minded, public spirited, able, energetic man of the people, whom to
know is to respect and admire.

Mr. Beeby was born near Charlotte, Clinton county, Iowa, on February
13, 1864, was reared to farm pursuits and educated in the public schools and
a business college, receiving a good education. He is the son of Daniel and
Permina (Reed) Beeby. The father was a native of England and the mother
of Iowa. They were married at De Witt, Clinton county, Iowa, and came to
this county in the spring of 1855. He was born on January 26, 1822, and in
the old country was a tradesman. Upon coming to Clinton county, Iowa,
he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land, which had a small amount of
poor improvements. He remained there until all his children were born and
engaged very successfully in general farming and stock raising. He made

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 923

extensive improvements on this farm and added to his lands until he had seven
hundred and fifty acres. In politics he was a Republican, but never aspired to
office. He gave his own business all his attention. He was reared in the
church of England, from which he never departed. He underwent many
deprivations and hardships in helping to settle and build up the county. When
he came to this locality it was sparsely settled, and there was an abundance of
game, wild beasts roaming at will. He was among the very early settlers and
was one of the influential men of his time, and is worthy of an honorable
place in the history of Clinton county. He continued on the farm until 1897
when he retired from active farming and spent his declining years at Charlotte.
He was widely known among all the old settlers and was highly respected, his
integrity and honor being above reproach. He died on February 2, 1908, his
wife having preceded him, dying on the 22nd of February, 1900. She was
the daughter of Paul and Nancy (Fen) Reed, both of Pennsylvania, and they
came to the vicinity of Gabena, Missouri, about 1850. The father died at
Hanover, Illinois. His wife came to Clinton county, Iowa, and bought a
small farm, and kept the family together, rearing them in credit and respecta-
bility.

Charles Beeby, brother of the father of the subject, came here before the
father came and bought land in this neighborhood, improved a farm and after
a number of years sold out and moved to Dakota. He was among the first
to settle here and was a great factor in getting the country settled up with
good men, most of whom came to him, and he would help them hunt their
land, doing all he could to get them settled. He had money and the needy
who came to him were always helped. He took no note and no security, and
when they were ready to return the money no questions were asked. He was
one of the first settlers in southeastern Dakota, where he farmed until his re-
tirement from active life, and he died in northern Iowa, at Akron. He was not
an aspirant for office at any time. The father of the subject was a Republican,
and he was a member of the United Workmen. His children were as follows :
Charles W., the subject; Sylvester, a farmer, who died September 17, 1904,
leaving two children; Francis T., a farmer and stockman, died April 30, 1900,
a single man; Harry E., a farmer and stockman, buys and ships fat stock, and
now resides at Charlotte; Alice, Mrs. Joseph Yando, lives on a farm; John
died young,

Charles W. Beeby, of this review, was reared in this vicinity and remained
under the paternal roof until twenty-one years old, then engaged in farming
for himself. He continued general farming, and raised and bought cattle for
the market and shipped to Chicago, being very successful in his dealings.

924' CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

He yet maintains two large farms. On March i, 1904, he came to Charlotte
and built a commodious residence, which he sold and built another fine modern
two-story frame house, situated on a natural elevated site, overlooking the
town, where he has a most handsome residence. For many years he has been
buying and shipping fat stock at all seasons of the year in large numbers, and is
assisting the people of the county in furnishing the markets with their stock.
He pays current prices and they are satisfied. He assisted in the organization of
the Charlotte Savings Bank, with fifty thousand dollars capital, and was made
a director thereof, in 1900 was elected president, and again in 1908 was made
president. The bank has been a pronounced success, being owned and man-
aged by substantial business men, and the depositors have the utmost confidence
in the management, it being known among the very solid institutions of Clin-
ton county. It is a bank of deposit and discount, and does a very large gen-
eral banking business as well, also buys and sells exchange.

Mr. Beeby is a Republican and uses his influence for the party and as a
reward for the efforts he has put forth in his party's behalf he was given, by
the party leaders, without solicitation, the nomination for state senator in the
fall of 19 10. He has never been an aspirant for ojffice, but has always been
interested in public affairs.

Fraternally, Mr. Beeby is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Modern
Woodmen and Modern Brotherhood of America. He is a enterprising and
public spirited citizen, ready to help build up Charlotte and the country at
large.

Mr. Beeby w-as married on February 2, 1892, to Louisa Denoma, who
was born in Clinton county in March, 1862, a lady of intelligence and culture,
a daughter of Joseph and Angeline Roberts Denoma, of Canada, who came to
this county in 1852, the father becoming a prominent farmer and stock raiser.
The father, who died in March, 18851 was a Catholic. His wife died in 1890.
The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Denoma : Joseph, a farmer;
Anthony, a farmer, stock raiser and merchant ; Ocdabo, a farmer ; John, a
farmer; Adeline, Mrs. Faver; Philemon, Mrs. Burnitt ; Sarah, Mrs. J. Thomp-
son ; Louisa, wife of the subject of this sketch ; Emma, Mrs. J. Gray ; Eugenia,
Mrs. Jen Sorsen.

No children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Beeby. Religiously, Mrs.
Beebv is a Catholic, which faith she was reared in.

CLAUS KRUSE.

Among the many thrifty and enterprising citizens of Clinton county who
have come to us from the great German empire, benefitting alike themselves

MR. AND MRS. CLAUS KRUSE

THE i^EW YiOEK
PUBLIC LIBllARY

A^TOIl, LENOX, ANT)

TILDEN FOUNDATIONS

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 925

and us, is Clans Kruse. extensive farmer and stock raiser in the vicinity of
Goose Lake, a man who is in every way deserving of the large success he can
claim.

Mr. Kruse was born near Kiel, province of Holstein, Germany, August
20. 1835, and was reared on a farm and educated in his native country. He
is the son of Paul and Margaret (Shombarger) Kruse, both of the same prov-
ince in Germany. The father was a farmer and speculator, a very progressive
man, and came to America in 1853. Emigrating to Iowa, he first located at
Davenport, where he remained two years and found employment in a brick
yard and in burning lime. At the expiration of the period indicated, he came
to Clinton county, bought a small tract of land and improved and cultivated
it, later adding to it until he had one hundred and sixty acres. He carried on
general farming, raised and fed stock in a small way and was successful. He
gave all his attention to his farm and its products. He was a Democrat, but
never aspired to ofiice, and was a consistent member of the Lutheran church.
He became well known and was highly respected, his integrity and honor being
above reproach. He died in his eightieth year; his wife preceded him in
death at the age of seventy years. Ten children blessed his marriage : Claus,
of this review, being the sixth child. Four are yet living, viz : Joseph, a farmer
in this township; Peter runs a lumber yard at Goose Lake; Margaret, wife of
Peter Hagge. of Goose Lake ; Claus, of this review.

The subject remained at home and assisted his father until he married,
in 1862, then settled on his eighty-acre tract of land, erected a small house and
began work. He had sold his inheritance from his father, forty acres of
land, to his brother and bought the eighty-acre tract. He has been increasing
his lands ever since and he yet holds the original eighty-acre tract, and now
owns over sixteen hundred acres of the finest land in Deep Creek township,
most of which is well improved farms, which he rents. His son manages the
home farm. He has done general farming, and raised and fed stock which
he markets, and his sons are carrying forward the work he inaugurated. He
is very successful. He also invested in bank stock in the Goose Lake Bank,
and has some vacant lots in Goose Lake. He has made good investments in
all his operations and is among the more prominent and financially strong
citizens of Deep Creek township. He has retired from active operations and
turned over to his sons the management of his extensive farms. He and his
wife are in the full enjoyment of a well spent life. He is widely known and
has the confidence and respect of all that know him. He was brought up in
the Lutheran church, from which faith he has never departed.

Mr. Kruse married Catherina Petersen, who was born in the province

926 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

of Schleswig, Germany, in April, 1841, a daughter of Hans and Catherina
(Neave) Petersen, both of Germany. The father was a farmer, and in 1857,
shortly before the death of the mother, which occurred in Germany, the wife
of the subject, one brother and one sister, came to America, and in 1867 the
father came to this country and joined his children, all settling in Clinton
county, Iowa. The father found a good home with his daughter, Mrs.
Kruse, where he died in March, 1884. He was a good farmer in the
old country and was proud of the choice of his children who came to America.
Four children were in his family, the wife of the subject being the third in
order of birth. Mrs. Kruse died on April 6, 191 1, and was buried in Ingwer-
sen cemetery.

There have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Kruse ten children, namely:
Henry, now helping to run the home farm, a good financier, and stockholder
and president of the Goose Lake Bank; Adolph is also on the home place;
Emma, Mrs. Peter Peterson; Lena, wife of Paul Martinsen, a farmer; Aug-
ust is a prominent farmer in this county ; Ferdinand is also a farmer ; Edward
and Johannis, neither married and both farmers, live together; Francis, wife
of John Ploog, a farmer; Alfareida is at home, single.

Glaus Kruse has proven himself to be a good financier and a very success-
ful man, entirely self-made, making his start from the forty acres of land
from his father, and he helped his father in getting the land. He is unpre-
tentious, never making any great fuss about what he is doing, but quietly look-
ing out for his own interests and picking up bargains in good lands, working
hard and making but few mistakes, using good judgment in all transactions,
and by hard work and honest dealing he has created a large estate.

BIRT WAUGH.

Herein is partially recorded the history of a family of honorable and
worthy men and women, who have taken their share in the development of
Clinton county. And what more can one do for one's country than the rear-
ing to manhood and womanhood of twelve strong citizens, as did the father
of the subject, the wagonmaker of Maquoketa and farmer of Clinton county.

Birt Waugh was born in Brookfield township, Clinton county, Iowa, on
January 10, 1875, on the farm which he now owns, the son of EdAvard

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 927

Fletcher W^augh and Liddy (Smith) ^^'augh. Edward Waugh was born in
Mercer county. Pennsylvania, April 25, 1833, the son of natives of Ireland,
who came to Jackson county, Iowa, in an early day where he lived to the age
of ninety-nine. Edward \\^augh came to Jackson county in 1854, and there
met his wife, who was born in New York, February 21. 1843, ^^^^^ came to
Jackson county in i'852. For twelve years ^Ir. Waugh followed the wagon-
maker's trade in Maquoketa, then, having been set back by the war. in 1866
he removed to Clinton county and bought one hundred and sixty acres of land,
to which he afterwards added one hundred and sixty more. Here he lived
and farmed successfully until 1907. when he returned to Maquoketa, and
now lives there in retirement. In politics he is a Republican, and has held
local offices in Brookfield township. He and his wife are members of the
Methodist church. They were the parents of fifteen children, twelve of
whom are living: Lester, Vernon Edward, Etta (deceased), Sherman (de-
ceased), Arthur, Clinton, Gertrude, AUie. Birt, Charles, Anna, Mary (de-
ceased). Bird, Edward Fletcher and Elbert.

Birt Waugh grew to manhood on the old farm, and attended the com-
mon schools and Dixon's Normal College, then engaged in farming, and now
owns eighty acres of land. He carries on general farming and stock raising,
and is a breeder of Shorthorn cattle. For about ten years he has been the
owner of a threshing machine, and spends his summers largely in the Avork of
threshing. He and his family are members of the Methodist church. On
January 17, 1905, he was married to Martha Richie, who was born on April
26, 1884, in Liberty township, Clinton county, the daughter of C. E. and Ella
(Calkins) Richie. C. E. Richie came early to Clinton county; here his wife
died, and he is now living at Toronto, Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Waugh are the
parents of one son. Fay Elsworth, born January 31, 1906.

Charles W^augh, a brother of Birt, was born on the Waugh homestead on
June 27, 1877. He attended the public schools, is a farmer, and works eighty
acres of land, giving special attention to the breeding of Shorthorn cattle and
Poland China hogs. He is, like all his brothers, a Republican. Fraternally
he is a member of the Odd Fellows. On October 10, 1906, Charles Waugh
was married to Celia Vogelsang, of Clinton county, Iowa. Two children
have been born to them, Thelma and Melvin.

Edward F. Waugh, another brother, was born on February 27, 1884,
attended the common schools, and early began farming. He is working
eighty acres of the homestead, and is also a breeder of Shorthorn cattle, a
Republican, and an Odd Fellow, like his brothers. He was married on March
26, 1906, to Hermina Kettlesen. of Clinton county. One child. Vera, has
been born to them.

928 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Another brother, Elbert, works the remaining eighty acres of the home-
stead. He also is a breeder of Shorthorn cattle. In politics he is a Repub-
lican.

The Waiigh brothers are all excellent farmers, and strong, progressive
young men. They have many friends, and no family in their community is
more highly respected than the Waughs.

WILLIAM J. MEVES.

Among the farmers of Spring Rock township, Clinton county, who are
deserving of mention in a history of the province of the one at hand is
William J. Meves, who is a man of well-established principles and who takes
an interest in the affairs of his community, delighting in witnessing the
advancement of the same and the success of his neighbors.

Mr. Meves was born in Berlin township, this county, in 1875, and is the
son of W. H. and Anna (Graves) Meves, both born in Germany, from which
country they came to America when children with their parents and the
mother's people located in Illinois, near Moline, while the father's family
moved to near Davenport, in Scott county, Iowa. The maternal grandparents
came to Wheatland, Iowa, about 1880 and there spent the remainder of their
lives. The paternal grandfather died \vhen his son, W. H., father of the
subject, was twelve years of age. The latter was thus somewhat handicapped
in his youth, but he made the most of every discouraging situation and be-
came self-educated. He devoted his attention to farming when a young man,
and when the war of the Rebellion broke out, he entered the service of the
Union, becoming a member of Company A, Eighth Iowa Infantry, in which
he served, with distinction, until the close of the struggle, being, according
to his comrades, a most faithful soldier. After the war he returned to Iowa
and located near De Witt, Clinton county, and there engaged in farming,
which he continued with much success and satisfaction. His wife came to
Clinton county in about 1870, her people locating in Berlin township. The
father of William J. Meves conducted a hotel at Tama City at different times,
and was once a merchant in Wheatland for many years, but farming has been
his chief work. He was very successful in \vhatever line he attempted,
and, having laid by a competency for his old age, he is now living retired,
making his home at Wheatland, where he has a very pleasant and neat dwell-
ing. In his family were numbered four children, three of whom are living.

PUBLIC LIBUAR^
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MRS. FLORINTI MEVES

WILLIAM J. MEVES

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 929

W. H. Meves is a Republican and he and his family affiliate with the German
Reformed church.

William J. Meves, of this review, was educated in the schools of Wheat-
land and he took up farming when a young man and has made this line of
endeavor his principal life work. He operates one hundred and eighty acres
west of \Vheatland. which he has kept well improved and which vields
abundant harvests from vear to vear. He carries on general farmino- and
handles some good grades of stock.

Mr. Meves was married in 1901 to Florinti Schneider, who has proved
to be a most worthy helpmeet, and to this union three children have been
born, Phyllis, Edwin and Elenora Tenette, the last two being deceased.

In politics Mr. Meves is a Republican, and fraternally a Modern Wood-
man of America.

CORNELIUS PETERSEN.

As a farmer and stock raiser Cornelius Petersen holds a very high
rank among those who make these lines of endeavor their life work in Water-
ford township. He is one of the large number of our enterprising citizens
who ha\e come from the famous province of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany.
ha\-ing been born near Wick, October 7, 1848. There he spent his boyhood
and started his education, but his parents brought him to America when he
was ten years of age and here he finished his schooling. He is a son of
Marks and Margaret Inga ( Magratha) Petersen, both natix'es of Germany,
the father of Rippen and the mother of Foehr. They grew to maturity and
married in the fatherland, making that their place of abode until 1859,
when they came to America, the voyage requiring eight weeks. They landed
at New Orleans and went to Mobile, stayed until spring, then went back
to New Orleans and came by steamboat to Lyons, Clinton county, Iowa,
first locating in Center township, where they remained one year, then bought
forty acres of timber land, which the father cleared and improved, adding
forty acres more four years later, and there he remained until 1873, his wife
dying on Christmas night of that year. He then rented his farm and moved
to Clinton, and later returned to his native land, where he married, and
soon afterwards came back to Iowa, buying a forty acre farm on which he
settled. He also bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres near
Sabula, Iowa. He became very well established in due course of time, be-
ing a man of industry and a good manager. He bought large tracts of

(59)

930 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

land, which he distributed among his children. In 1897 ^^ again returned
to the fatherland, where his death occurred and where he was buried. He
was among the prominent and influential farmers of Clinton county, well
known and accorded the highest respect. He had no children by his last
marriage. Peter, who was born to the first union, lived on the old homestead
where he died, leaving three children ; Cornelius, of this review ; Martin, who
never married, traveled a great deal, spending a great deal of his time in
the old country, finally disappearing, his whereabouts not being known ; he
was formerly a merchant of Clinton, Iowa.

Cornelius Petersen remained under the parental roof, assisting with
the work on the farm during his youth. He was married on March 18, 1873,
and settled to farming on the homestead, where he remained two years;
then in 1875 he purchased ninety acres in section 10. Washington township,
this county, later adding one hundred and sixty acres adjoining, still later
adding another survey, thus owning a splendid aggregation of land to the
amount of four hundred and ninety acres, which he brought up to a high
state of improvement, and there remained, successfully engaged in general
farming and stock raising, until 1908, when he bought the B. J. Monahan
farm, containing three hundred and seventy-three acres adjoining the cor-
porate limits of Charlotte, which is one of the most elaborately improved
pnd one of the best farms in Clinton county. He keeps it under a high state
of cultivation, carrying on general farming and stock raising, buying, feed-
ing and shipping large numbers, being widely known as a stock man. He
has solfl a part of his Washington township farm, but yet owns two hundred
pnd fifty acres of that farm. He has given his attention exclusively to farm-
ing and stock raising and his efforts have been crowned with abundant suc-
cess He has a beautiful home, in the midst of attractive surroundings and
it is known as a place of old-time hospitality to the many friends of the
family.

Mr. Petersen is a stanch Democrat in his political relations and he has
filled, very acceptably, some of the township offices, such as school direc-
tor, etc.. though he is not an aspirant to public offices, being too busy with
his large individual affairs • He is a consistent member of the Lutheran
church and he contributes liberally to the support of the church at Charlotte.

Mr. Petersen was married to Anna Hansen, who was born in Gemiany,
November 17, 1851, the daughter of Hans P. and Mary (Ohrms) Hansen,
both natives of Germany, where they grew to maturity and were married,
emigrating to America in 1866, coming direct to Lyons, Iowa, where they
lived a year, later located in Center Grove township and engaged in farm-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 93 1

ing. Mr. Hansen becoming well established, owning large tracts of land.
His death occurred in 1890, his wife having preceded him to the grave in
1881. They became widely known, prominent and influential. Their chil-
dren were: Sabina, who first married a Mr. Paulsen. l)y whom she had three
children, her second husband being N. Holtz. which union resulted in the
birth of three children ; Peter first married Mary Petersen, and later Lena
Bolt: August lives in Minnesota: Henry married Mattie Breitholtz and
her death occurred in 1884: he then married Maggie Bock: Anna, wife of
the subject.

To Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius Petersen the following children have been
born: Henry, a retired farmer: Johannis is an agent for Arkansas lands;
Mark lives on the old homestead ; Adolph is managing the home farm ; Ed-
ward is at home : August, who is at home, was manager of one of Mr. Peter-
sen's farms in Arkansas, which has recently been sold; Amanda is the wife
of the Rev. Carl H. Olsen. pastor of the Charlotte Lutheran church; Malinda
is still a member of the home circle.

JAMES B. CLARK.

We of today owe a world of gratitude to the old pioneers, those hardy
sons of the soil who did so much for later generations and whose examples
we should, in many ways, attempt to follow, for they were, as a rule, not only
sturdv in l)rain and brawn, but in character also, being scrupulously honest
and hardworking, looking to the general improvement of their communities
along material, civic and moral lines. Such a man was James B. Clark, long
since "gathered to his fathers." who vvill long be remembered in Clinton
county, especially in Maquoketa. w^here he long maintained his home. He
was born in New Jersey. July 17. 1802. and was the son of Bailey and Mary
Clark. When a young man he learned the trade of wagonmaker and became
very expert in this line of work, always finding a demand for his highly skilled
labor. When a young man he emigrated to Ancaster, Canada, where he mar-
ried Jane Ware, who was born in Tichiel. England, April 9. 1811. In the
spring of 1855 the family moved to Maquoketa. Jackson county. Iowa, where
Mr. Clark died three weeks later of smallpox. A few weeks after that event
Mrs. Clark purchased a farm of one hundred and twenty acres in Bloomfield
township. Clinton county, where she made her home until lier death. Eleven
children were born to this familv. of wb.om nine are living: they were Mrs.

932 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Mary A. Wilbur, of Norwich. New York; PVancis, of Delmar, Iowa; Mrs.
Esther A. Kettle, of Los Angeles, California; William, of Delmar, this county
(see his individual sketch); Mrs. Elizabeth Older, deceased; Mrs. Jane A.
Sackrider, deceased ; John N., of Sedalia, Missouri ; Benjamin G., of Indian-
ola. Iowa : Emma A. has remained single ; Nehemiah, of Flagler, Colorado ;
Mrs. Hattie L. Rossiter. The mother of these children, who was a faithful
member of the Methodist Episcopal church, was called to her reward on Febru-
ary 21, 1892. Francis Clark, mentioned above, purchased one hundred and
twenty acres adjoining the old Clark homestead in Bloomfield township, of
which he owned eighty acres.

John N. Clark, referred to in the preceding paragraphs, proved his loy-
alty to the Union cause by enlisting in the Federal army in July, 1862, having
worked hard all day in the harvest field, but he walked to De Witt, Iowa, in
the evening. Being only eighteen years of age and short of stature, he placed
pads in the heels of his shoes in order to make the required height. He had
obtained his mother's consent and became a member of Company F. Twenty-
sixth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, in which he served gallantly until the close of
the war, seeing service in some of the hardest engagements during that
sanguinary struggle. He was never wounded or taken prisoner and no sick-
ness overtook him. For meritorious service he was promoted to corporal.

James B. Clark, the immediate subject of this sketch, was a thorough and
painstaking farmer and he kept his place well improved and made a success of
whatever he turned his attention to.

AUGUST KRAMER.

The Kramer family is one of the thriftiest and best known among the
German element in the western part of Clinton county, especially Spring
Rock township, where they maintain well improved farms and comfortable
and attractive homes, all of which they have made by indomitable energy and
persistent endeavor along legitimate lines. One of the representative mem-
bers of this family of the present generation is August Kramer, who was born
in Illinois on October 2, 1856, the son of Henry and Christina (Sittler)
Kramer, both born in Germany, from which country they came to America
in 1852 and located in Adams county. Illinois, as early settlers and there
they began farming and became well established. In 1864 the family came
to Lyons, Clinton county, Iowa, where the father conducted a general store

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 933

during the balance of his life, dying in 1866; his widow survived him thirty-
seven years, passing to her rest in 1903. She was a woman of most mag-
nanimous impulses, and was the mother of nine children. She and her fam-
ily were Lutherans.

August Kramer, of this review, was educated in German in the schools
at Lyons, Iowa. He began farming when a boy and has always continued this
vocation, his efforts having brought him abundant success. In the fall of
1875 he bought, in connection with his brother-in-law, two hundred and forty
acres of good land in the northern part of Spring Rock township, this county.
They farmed in partnership for a period of nine years, then rented a farm of
the subject's father-in-law for the next ten years, having sold his share of the
former place. He was a good manager, a hard worker and saved his money,
and in 1894 he purchased the excellent place which he now makes his place of
abode, moving here in 1895. He first bought one hundred and sixty acres,
later one hundred and forty acres on the river. He has brought his land up to
a high state of cultivation and he carries on general farming in a manner that
stamps him as being abreast of the times in every particular. He also raises
and feeds a great deal of stock. Among the substantial improvements w^hich
are noted on the place which he has made are the excellent barns. He also
has a neat and very cozy dwelling.

In the spring of 1885 Mr. Kramer was married to Mary Reedesel, who
was born in Ohio, on April 14, 1861, from which state she came to Clinton
county, Iowa, with her parents, who located in Spring Rock township, about
1869. This family has always ranked high in the communities where they
have lived. To Mr. and Mrs. Kramer three children have been born, namely :
Edna Elenora, March 25, 1886; Louise Emielia, December 5, 1888, and Henry
George. August 25, 1891.

Mr. and Mrs. Kramer are faithful members of the Reformed church,
and politically he is a Democrat, but independent in local matters, preferring
to vote for the man whom he deems most eligible for the office sought. Fra-
ternally, he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.

EDMUND L. COOK.

The spirit of a noble and earnest life is that which animates the honored
subject of this sketch, than whom no man in Clinton county is better known

934 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

and few occupy as high a place in the esteem and confidence of the pubhc as he.
His career has been replete with good to his fellow men and now. in the even-
ing of life, as the shadows lengthen and he proceeds onward toward the twi-
light of the journey's end. he is cheered by the consciousness of duty well done
and faithfully performed and the heartfelt desire of his many friends is that
his days may yet be many in which to bless the world by his presence and
influence.

Edmund L. Cook is a native of W'elland county, Ontario, where his birth
occurred on the 9th day of October, 1830. In 1842. when a lad of twelve
years, he removed to Clinton county, Iowa, with his parents. Robert and Ruth
Cook, and settled on the claim of eighty acres in Brookfield township which
his father purchased of the government. There were not many v.hite people
at that time in the township, the population of the northern part consisting of
about eighty people, old and young. White neighbors were few and far be-
tween. Later, about the year 1854, Mr. Cook drove overland to California,
making the trip with a single team and a covered wagon and during that and
the two years ensuing he followed mining, but met with only fair success in
his search for gold. Returning to Clinton county in 1856, he settled in Brook-
field township and turned his attention to a surer way of acquiring a fortune in
agriculture, which, with the breeding and raising of stock, he followed with
gratifying success until his retirement from active life a short time ago.
Meanwhile he added to his real estate from time to time until his farm now
contains three hundred and sixty acres of as fine land as the county of Clinton
can boast, the soil being deep, fertile and admirably adapted to agriculture and
pasturage, and the improvements of all kinds being among the best in the
township. In the prosecution of his labors as a farmer Mr. Cook has always
been enterprising and progressive and his success has been such as few achieve
on larger and more pretentious estates. He has succeeded in all his under-
takings so that in his old age he is well situated financially, having a beautiful
and attractive home, amply supplied with comfort and conveniences, and a
fortune of suflicient magnitude to render his future free from care or anxiety.
Though never a politician, he has kept in touch with the times on all matters
of public interest, and concerning the great c|uestions and issues before the
people he has ever had well grounded opinions which have carried weight and
commanded respect. He has permitted few, if any, to exceed him in his
efiforts to promote the varied interests of the community, all means for the
social and moral advancement of his neighbors and fellow citizens enlisting
his co-operation and support, and throughout a long and busy life he has

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 935

always been governed Ijy the principles of honor and rectitude which gained
the confidence of his fellow men and won for him a large place in public favor,

Mr. Cook was married the first time in 1861 to Emma Wilbereer. ot
Indiana, who died in 1867, after a brief and happy wedded experience of six
years duration. On October i6th of the latter year was solemnized his mar-
riage with Adaline Sparks, whose birth occurred on the 26th of March, 1835,
and who departed this life August i, 1901. The following are the names of
the children who constitute the familv of Mr. Cook : E(hnund L., born Aue:-
ust IT. 1867. is a custom ofiicial in the government service at Washington,
D. C. ; Ruby A. Hill, born August 8, 1870, is connected with the Savings
Bank of Elwood. this county; A. L, cashier of tlie Eirst National Bank at
Lost Nation, who was born June 17. 1873 (see sketch) ; DeLoyd K. Cook,
whose birth occurred on April 18, 1875, was graduated from Drake Univer-
sity. Des Moines, in 1898, with the degree of Doctor of Laws, after which he
received a certificate admitting him to practice in all the state courts, later
being admitted to the federal courts. He married, on the 21st of December,
1898. Esther M. McKenzie. who w^as born June 18. 1879, being a daughter
of Dr. H. M. McKenzie, a prominent physician and representative citizen of
Elwood; four children have been born to this union, namely; Harold, Ruth,
Donald and Herbert M., all living. D. K. Cook is not only one of the distin-
guished lawyers of the state, but has also made his influence felt in political
circles. ha\ing been twice chosen a delegate to the Republican state conven-
tions, besides taking an active part in national campaigns.

The subject of this re\'iew is proud of his family and has every reason
to be so. His children appreciate his efforts in their behalf and now. in
homes of their own and responsible positions and professions, they hold him
in the highest esteem, repose great confidence in his judgment and counsel,
and bv all means at their command endeavor to keep unsullied the luster of
an honored family name. Though practically retired, he still lives on his
farm nnd gives personal attention to his business affairs. He takes great in-
terest in fine live stock, making a specialty of blooded horses, which he breeds
and raises for the market, and he feeds a large number of cattle, which add
verv materially to his income. He has literally remained in the harness dur-
ing all the years of his long and somewhat strenuous life and, though past
the eightieth mile stone on the journey from this world to the next, he is still
hale and hearty, retaining to a marked degree his physical powers, being
mentally as keen, alert and observing as in the days of his prime.

936 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

CLAUS J. GLUESIXG.

On the farms are found the plain and elemental virtues and the rugged
strength which characterize the citizens of any state which can be ranked
as truly great. Here better than in the city's rush and turmoil have these
virtues the chance to grow and expand, and reach fruition in lives which may
be quiet, but are not weak. As still waters run the deepest, so we may find
the truest, strongest characters in the quiet of some farming community.

Claus J. Gluesing was born in Holstein. Germany, March 2. 1836, son
of Jacob and Margaret (Paulsen) Gluesing. His parents were natives of
Germany, and his father died there in 1842. His mother came to Clinton
county. Iowa, in 1869, and died here in 1876. Of their four children, two
are living.

Claus Gluesing grew to manhood in Germany and received his education
there. In 1866 he came to Clinton county. Iowa, and worked on the farms
for three years, then in 1869 he rented a farm, and in 1872 bought a farm of
eighty acres, to which he has added until now he is the owner of two hundred
and eighty acres, all of which has been made by his own exertions. In 1902
he retired from active work and came to De Witt, where he has since lived.
In politics he is a Democrat, and was township trustee of De Witt township
for four years, and before that was road supervisor and school director. He
and his family are members of the Lutheran church of De Witt.

Mr. Gluesing was married on February 18, 1869, to Agatha Marie Lev-
sen, daughter of Lorenzo and Anna Catherine (Sebersen) Levsen. Her par-
ents were natives of Schleswig and came to this countr\^ in 1852, and located
on a Clinton county farm, and here her father died September 18, 1882, and
her mother on March 9, 1890. They were the parents of six children, of
whom three are living. Mr. Levsen was a Democrat and he and his family
were Lutherans.

Mr. and Mrs. Gluesing are the parents of ten children: Margaret C,
born November 24. 1869; Anna C, born January 9, 1872: Louise M.. born
May 12, 1874; John L., born November 10, 1876; Claus H.. born December
12, 1878: Claus J., born March 2, 188 1 ; Frederick B., born April 5, 1883;
Bertha D., born September 10, 1885; Matilda A. M., born December 16,
1887; and Theresa A. W., born March 9, 1890. Seven of these children are
married, namely: Margaret C, February, 1893, to Claus F. Grave: Anna
C, January 14, 1896, to William Timm; Louise M., January 14, 1896, to
Joseph H. Wiese ; John L., September 4. 1901, to Martha Gaulitz : Claus H.. in

MR. AND MRS. CLAUS J. GLUESING

THE NEW YORK-
PUBLIC LIBRARY

AS"0'', LENOX, ANB

TILliEN FOUNDATIONS

R L

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 937

Februar}^, 1902. to Jennie Osterberg; Claus J., May 17, 1905, to Cora Wes-
ton; Frederick B., December 7, 1910, to Emilie Statley.

Mr. Gluesing reached this country with nothing, at an age well into
young manhood, and has by his industry and exertions since made himself
one of the leading and prosperous farmers of the township. Surely such a
life is an inspiration to any one who may read of it, or who knows his history.
He is spending his older days in peace, surrounded by his friends.

JOHN FRED BENDTSCHNEIDER.

In going over Clinton county one is impressed with the large number of
thrifty farmers of the Germanic race who have settled within our borders,
most welcomed citizens, all of them, for they are, it may be said, almost with-
out exception, hard workers ; they believe in improvements, in progress, in
keeping abreast of the times, and in such a nature-favored region as this we
find them almost always prosperous, for all they have to do here is to work,
to make the effort and their toil is abundantly rewarded.

One such is J. F. Bendtschneider, whose birth occurred in Germany in
September, 1846. He is the son of John and Catherine (Sievers) Bendt-
schneider, both born in Germany, where they were reared and married; they
came to America in May, 1857, and located in Davenport, Iowa, and there
lived a year and a half, then moved to a farm near Charlotte, Clinton count}%
where they lived several years or until the father's death in 1869. He took
out naturalization papers and became one of the community's best citizens,
and he was a successful farmer. His wife survived him until the spring of
1888. They were the parents of three children. The father had sen-ed quite
awhile in the German army and he made an excellent soldier.

The subject was educated in the public schools of this county and reared
on the home farm here, which he worked on when but a small boy and he has
made farming his chief life work. In the fall of 1869 he bought eighty acres
in Boone county and lived there three years, got a good start and then returned
to Clinton county and rented a farm for some time near Bryant. After living
on two different farms he moved to Lincoln tow^nship and bought tw'o hun-
dred and twenty acres, which place he still owns, and which he has brought
up to a high state of improvement. He has a neat, substantial and comfort-
able home and excellent outbuildings. He has transformed this farm since
purchasing it into one of the best in the township in every respect, it being

93^ CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

greatly admired by all who see it. As to fertility of soil, he has brought it
up to a high state of cultivation and has so skillfully rotated his crops and
applied artificial fertilizers until it is as rich as at any time in the past. He
has now retired from active work and is living in an attractive and comfort-
able house at No. 516 North Sixth street, Lyons.

In politics he is a Republican, but has not been an office-seeker. He and
his wife are members of the Lutheran church at Lyons.

The subject was married on February 26, 1874, to Anna Born Grants,
a native of Germany, from which country she was brought to America by her
parents when one year old. This family settled near Charlotte, Clinton
county, Iowa, later moving to Lyons, where both parents died.

Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Bendtschneider, named as
follows: Ella, the wife of John Ommen; J. Adolph; Martha, the wife of
John Holdorf ; Clara, the wife of Arnold Peterson; Arnold, Anna and Henri-
etta, all three at home.

WILLIAM B. CLARK.

One of the well known and progressive citizens of Delmar, Clinton
county, is William B. Clark, a man who would doubtless make a success of
whatever he turned his attention to owing to the fact that he possesses many
of the qualities that win — perseverance, tact, good common sense and a spirit
of fairness, and now as the evening shadows of life envelop him, he can look
backward across the years with no compunction of conscience and forward
with no fear or apprehension.

Mr. Clark was born in Wentworth county, Canada, December i, 1837,
and received a good education in his native community in the public schools
and also attended the district schools of Clinton county, Iowa, having been
brought here in his boyhood by his father, James B. Clark, whose sketch ap-
pears on another page of this work. William B. Clark taught school for
five years, showing the interest he takes in school work. It was in 1855 that
this family came to Clinton county. Here the father died soon afterward
and the mother bought a farm in Bloomfield township and the subject made
his home on the farm with his mother until after he became of age. At the
time of leaving home he bought a farm south of Delmar, and in 1865 he sold
out and bought eighty acres in another section in Bloomfield township which
he still owns, having later added another eighty, his farm now consisting of
one hundred and sixty acres. He brought it up to a high state of improve-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 939

ment and retired from active farming in 1901, buying a modern residence in
Delmar where, surrounded by all the comforts of life, he is spending his old
age in quiet and happiness.

Mr. Clark was married in 1865 to Harriett Cotton, who was born in
Gasport. Niagara county, New York, July 25, 1841, the daughter of William
and Harriett (Hanks) Cotton, the father a native of Vermont and the mother
of New York. They came to Jackson county, Iowa, in 1859 and located at
Maquoketa, where Mr. and Mrs. Clark were married. To this union six
children were born. Flora A. Clark's birth occurred on April 21, 1866. She
was educated in the schools of Delmar and spent one year in Cornell College,
Mt. Vernon, Iowa, then taught school five terms, one term in Cedar county
and four in Clinton county. In 1888 she was married to \\''illiam W. Willey,
who was born in Shipton, Canada, May 7, 1859, the son of William and Sarah
(McNeal) Willey, the father born in New York in 18 19 and the mother in
Shipton, Canada, in 1829. They were the parents of seven children, of which
number, W. W. Willey, was the fourth in order of birth. They came to
Clinton county many years ago and located in Bloomfield township. Mr.
Willey was employed as M-akeman and conductor on freight trains for the
Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railroad for many years, then for about six
years he successfully conducted a grocery store at Delmar, during which time
he also very ably filled the position of postmaster, from 1886 to 1892. He
worked at the carpenter's trade for a short time and also clerked in a general
store for Fred Goodjohn for about two years. For a number of years he
was manager of the Milliken Produce Company, then with his brother Ed
and I. C. Spencer and others founded the Delmar Produce Company, of
which he was the moving spirit, and he became manager of the same, which
position he discharged most worthily until 1909, in which year he moved to
Carrollton. Missouri, and became president of the Willey Produce Company.
In 19 10 he returned to Delmar and is at present connected with the Jeffries
Construction Company as bookkeeper and purchasing agent. He is a member
of the Masonic order and the Modern Woodmen of America. Mr. and Mrs.
Willey are the parents of four children: Isabell G.. born in 1892: William
F., born in 1895; Paul A., born in 1897; Jeanette E.. born in 1901. Since
the spring of 19 10, Mrs. Willey and family have made their home with
William B. Clark, the subject.

The second child of Mr. and Mrs. William B. Clark, Vern B., was born
in 1864 and lives at Delmar; Archie W.. born in 1868, lives at Colorado City,
Colorado; Fred A. died when five years of age; Edith M., wife of George
Gage, was born in 1879 and lives on her father's farm; Grace, who married
Fred Luther, was born in 1880 and lives at Oelwein, Iowa.

940 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Mrs. William B. Clark was called to her rest on September 25, 1909.
She was an excellent woman and had a host of warm friends.

Politically, Mr. Clark is a Democrat and has been more or less active
for many years, having held almost all the township offices and since moving
to Delmar he has been a member of the school board. He is a public spirited
man and never lets an opportunity go by whereby he can do something to pro-
mote the community and county. His life has been led along safe and hon-
orable lines and he is held in high esteem throughout the county.

CHARLES BUECH.

A popular and successful merchant of Goose Lake. Clinton county, is
Charles Buech, who has the confidence and good will of the people of the vicin-
ity in which he lives, for his dealings with his fellow men have always been
square and straightforward and he has done much for the upbuilding of the
town and vicinity.

Mr. Buech was born near Kiel, Germany, August 26, i860. He came
to America at the age of five years and was educated in the Iowa district
schools. He is the son of Charles H. and Anna (Ehlers) Buech, both born
in the old country, where they married. He continued a laborer until i'865,
when he came to America, the trip on an old sailing vessel requiring seventy-
one days. They landed at New York, and a week later they were in Daven-
port, Iowa. The subject's grandfather also came. They had small means,
and had all to make and nothing to lose. From Davenport they came to Clin-
ton county by ox team. Charles H. Buech got his family located and he did
such work as he could find to do; his children gleaned the fields of the farm-
ers after the harvest. The following season he rented a small farm and was
successful ; the next season he rented a larger farm, and the next season rented
still another larger farm, worked hard, as also did his family, his wife and
children working in the harvest. Success crowned his efforts and in 1875 he
made a sale, selling off stock and machinery, and in 1877 bought out a hotel
and dance hall with saloon, and engaged in business, in which he continued ten
years, then retired to his private home, where he remained until 1888, ^vhen
he, with the subject, bought the store which the son continues to conduct.
They rented the building and four years later bought the building and he left
his name to the business to establish credit for the son. The firm name at
that time was C. H. Buech & Son, under which name the firm yet continued

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CHARLES BUECH

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in business (until after the death of the father) and in which the son has also
been successful, it being now known as the Charles Buech Company. C. H.
Buech was retired for many years, and liis death occurred September 14. 1909.
His wife died in May. 1900. In early life he was a hardworking man, and
by honest dealing he created a competency for his old age. He was reared a
Lutheran, from which faith lie never departed. He was always a social man,
and enjoyed having his friends around him. He was well known and highly
respected and his honor and integrity were above reproach. He seldom failed
on a payment, or if he did, he would make arrangements so that no trouble
would result. He was formerly a Republican, but later became a Democrat,
but had held no office. To him and his wife were born three children, Charles,
Johanna and Lena.

The son, Charles, bought and held the store, and in starting out, for a
number of years he worked three hundred and sixty-five days in the year; he
worked up a good trade and has been veiy successful. He has had some
misfortunes such as usually overtake business men, and was once robbed of
over one thousand dollars, but he kept steadily at his work and now has an
excellent trade and does the business for Goose Lake'and surrounding countr\\
He gave the business all his attention. When he bought the store his father
received the appointment of postmaster and he appointed the son assistant.
They continued in this relation until 1893, when he was appointed during
President Harrison's administration. He has established a rural route and
has increased the postoffice receipts from thirty-five dollars per quarter to more
than eighty dollars. He was once mayor of the town, but he does not aspire
to office. He is widely known and commands the confidence and respect of
the town and surrounding community and all who know him.

Mr. Buech was married on April 27, 1893, to Dora Martens, who was
born in the province of Holstein, Germany, on October 30, 1867. She is a
worthy wife and good helpmate. She is the daughter of Hans and Margaret
(James) Martens, both of Holstein, Germany, where he was a stone contractor
for public and private and railroad bridges. There they remained until all
their eight children were born, and in 1880 they brought their family to
America, landed in New York and later came to Iowa. They rented a farm
in Pottawattamie county, and lived there five years, then bought a farm in
Harrison county, and remained there until 1905, when he turned over the
farm to a son and retired from labor. He resided at Persia. Iowa. He was
successful in general farming and stock raising. He and his wife are both
living, he seventy-eight years of age and she seventy-five years old. Both were
brought up in the Lutheran church and they have never departed from that

942 • CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

faith. They had eight children, the wife of the subject being the fourth
child.

Four daughters have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Bench, namely : Emma,
born January 25, 1894, is well educated and is clerking with her father;
Maleta, born July 9, 1895; Lillian, lx)rn September 26, 1897, and Dora, born
November 21, 1902.

Mr. Beuch has not been an aspirant for political office, but he has con-
tinued postmaster over twenty years, his faithful services being very salis-
factoiy to the public.

LOUIS C. KEINER.

Success has been worthily attained by Louis C. Keiner. who is prom-
inently identified with the business life and upbuilding and development
of the town of Goose Lake, Deep Creek township, Clinton county, a man
who has the confidence and good will of all who know him, for his life has
been exemplaiy.

Mr. Keiner was born at Davenport, Iowa, February 13, 1865. He
was reared there and attended school, later went to a German private
school and received a good elementary education. He is the son of John E.
and Catherine (Arp) Keiner, the former born in Schwartzau, Saxony, the
latter a native of America. They were married at Davenport, Iowa. He
was by trade a nailsmith in the old country. He came to America in 1858,
landed at New York and soon after came to Davenport, Iowa, when that
city had just started. Later he was employed in a sawmill and was the head
sawyer for twenty-five years. The firm name w-as French & Davis and
later French & Son. During this period he married and later visited his
native country one year, then returned to Davenport, and engaged in the
saloon business two years. He was successful and then he settled on a farm
in western Iowa and lived there si.x years. His wife died in 1880; then he
returned to Davenport and lived there four years, then came to Goose Lake
in January, 1893, and bought a hotel, including nine acres of land, and the
subject took the business and has since conducted it successfully. He was
formerly a Republican and later a Democrat, but never aspired to office. He
was reared in the Lutheran church, from which faith he never departed.
He was enterprising and public spirited and well posted in business. He
bought bank stock and also brewery stock. He came to America with no

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 943

money, but by good financial methods and honest dealing, he created a good
estate. For many years he made his home with the subject, his son, after
coming to Goose Lake, where he died August 23, 19 10, and was buried at
the Engwesen cemetery. He was kindly cared for by his son and family
and his declining years were spent in contentment and were the
happy days of his life. The earliest days of his business life after coming
to America, were spent like those of many Germans coming to this country —
they had nothing to lose and all to make; he fought out the battle of life
and won. He was a broad-minded, intelligent man and a good financier.
By hard work and honest dealing he created a competency for his old age.
He was social and enjoyed friends around him. He was charitable to the
afflicted and needy, a good neighbor and friend. He became widely known
and highly respected, his integrity and honesty being above reproach. He
reared two sons and one daughter, all influential and highly respected, the
subject being the second youngest child. The father died at a ripe old age.
being in his eighty-third year.

Louis C. Keiner, of this review, remained under the parental roof, until
1889. ^vhen he married at Omaha, where he was clerking, and there he re-
mained as a clerk for four years, then came to Goose Lake. Iowa, where he
has since remained. He has remodeled his house and added to it and built
machine sheds and increased the property and engaged in selling machinery,
coal, flour, feed and all kinds of machinery, buggies, carriages and wagons.
He erected an electric light plant and lights the town. He has caused the
streets to be macadamized and gutters put in, and has done more than any
other man in making and building up Goose Lake. He promoted the
Goose Lake Savings Bank, and got it organized in Januaiy, 1908. with a
capital of twenty thousand dollars, with Henry Kruse, president; George
B. Boothby, vice-president ; and W. F. Schroeder, cashier. Directors : H.
Kruse, George B. Boothby, Louis C. Keiner, W. F. Schroeder, L. E. Keiner,
Christopher F. Schroeder, J. Sullivan and C. F. Schroeder. It was organized
under the laws of the state as a bank of deposit and discount. A recent
statement makes the following showing: Resources — loans, time and de-
mand, $84,757.07; realty and fixtures, $15,569.50; surplus, undivided cash
and due from banks, $15,569.50; liabilities — capital, $20,000; undivided
profits, $1,734.55; sight deposits, $24,689.08; savings deposits, $61,706.61.
Four per cent on savings. The subject is a director and active in the in-
terests of the bank and one of the live men of Goose Lake. He, with two
other men, bought land and platted an addition to Goose Lake, known as
Kruse's addition. The subject has invested some surplus in Texas lands,

944 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

large tracts of valual^le real estate. He is enterprising" and public spirited
and ready to take hold of any enterprise to boost Goose Lake and is among
Clinton county's sturdy men financially.

Mr. Keiner married Mary Martons, who was born in the province of
Holstein, Germany, and came with her parents to America. She is the
daughter of Hans and Margareta (James) Martons, both of Holstein, Ger-
many, who left the old country and came to America in 1880, and were suc-
cessful farmers and ha\'e now retired from all active business. They are
Lutherans and reside at Persia, Iowa. He has been successful and is well
known and highly respected, a good citizen. They reared four sons and four
daughters, the sons being successful farmers ; one has died.

Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Keiner: Johnny, born in
1892; Edward, born in 1893; Malinda, born in 1895; Helma, born in 1897;
Janett, born in 1899; Louis, born in 1901 ; and Mona, born in 1903. Both
Mr. and Mrs. Keiner were reared in the Lutheran church, from which faith
they have never departed. They are popular in the social life of the com-
munity and are pleasant people to know.

JOSEPH F. BLUMER.

The soil and climate of Clinton county are especially suited to stock
farming, and of the many branches of stock farming, dairying is one of the
most profitable when systematically managed. The value of the dairy prod-
ucts of this country is infinitely greater than the value of the product of the
gold and silver mines, and it is difficult to conceive how we could live without
the milk and butter which are supplied for us by the faithful cow. Mr.
Blumer has found in daiiying an attractive and pleasant pursuit, and has
shown his good management in conducting this business.

Joseph F. Blumer was born in Scott county, Iowa, on November 19,
1887, th^ son of Jacob J. and Mary (Nelson) Blumer. His father was born
in Engi, Switzerland, and came to Scott county, Iowa, in 1881, where he met
Mary Nelson, who had come to the county from Sweden about the same
time, and married her. They were the parents of five children, of whom two
are living, Joseph and John. Mrs. Blumer died in 1894, and Mr. Blumer is
now living in his native village of Engi, Switzerland.

Joseph Blumer grew up on the farm, and attended the public schools.
In 1893 his parents came to Clinton county, and located on a farm of two

JOSEPH F. BLUMER

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hundred and forty acres. His father improved the farm and erected the
present buildings, including a handsome residence. Joseph now owns one
hundred and sixty acres, comprising the homestead. He carries on general
farming and stock raising, and makes a specialty of dairying. This he has
made profitable and he is following in his father's steps as a successful
farmer.

In politics, Joseph Blumer is an independent voter. Though young, with
his life mainly in the future, he has already accomplished much as a successful
farmer and has made many friends for himself. In character he exemplifies
the strong traits of the two strong races, the Swiss and the Swedish, from
which he is descended. He is a young man of the finest traits of character.
He carries on an extensive business, employing three men, and, not being
married, he keeps two men and their families, beside a boy, to look after
things in general.

WILLIAM R HANRAHAN.

For a number of years William F. Hanrahan. well known merchant,
general stock and coal shipper and grain dealer, of Charlotte, Iowa, has been
a potent factor in promoting the progress of Waterford township along
material, social and civic lines, consequently his name well deserves a place
in the record of the representative citizens of this locality.

Mr. Hanrahan was born in Upper Canada, near Ottawa, March lo,
1837, and was reared on his parents' fann and received a good practical edu-
cation. He is the son of William and Ellen (Flynn) Hanrahan, both na-
tives of Ireland, he born in county Tipperary and she in Cork. Both
came to Canada when voung. in 182^, and were married there. He was the
son of Daniel Hanrahan, a farmer and an early settler in Canada, where he
reared his family, and there his death occurred. After this event, in May,
1 861. his widow and all the family came to Clinton county, Iowa, the father
of the subject having come in the fall of i860, bought land and returned to
Canada and in the spring moved the family here ; his mother spent the re-
mainder of her days here, dying at the advanced age of ninety years. Her
family consisted of eight children, all of whom settled in this county and
all died here. William Hanrahan. who married in Canada, was born in 1802
and his death occurred in 1880, at the age of seventy-eight years. He bought
land here and improved it, spending the remainder of his life here. He
was verv successful as a general farmer and he raised and handled large
(60)

946 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

numbers of live stock for the market, shipping to Chicago. He paid seven
dollars per acre for his first land, and by thrift and industry added to the same
until he owned two hundred and forty acres. He had one of the best farms
and most comfortable homes in the early days here. Politically, he was a
Democrat and was a member of the Catholic church. He was a good and
useful man in his community, charitable and ready to assist in any good
cause at all times, and he was highly respected by all. His wife died in
December, 1880. at the age of seventy-tw^o years; she was the daughter of
James Flynn, a native of Ireland, where he spent his life. She had three
brothers in Canada, James, Thomas and Patrick, w^ho later settled in New
York. Five sons and five daughters were born to the father of the subject,
named as follows: Daniel, a farmer, died, leaving six children; William F.,
of this review ; Ellen, Mrs. Magin ; Margerv% Mrs. T. Dunn ; Julia entered
the convent and later went to France, thence to South America ; Mary, Mrs.
Boyle; Nancy A., also a sister at an orphans' home. New York, where she
died aged thirty- four years; Thomas a successful farmer, died leaving five
children; Martin, farmer, died" in the East; Patrick, farmer, is yet single.

William F. Hanrahan spent his youth at home and assisted with the
farming until he was twenty-four years of age, then came to Iowa and as-
sisted his father start a new home. He then engaged in farming for him-
self and in buying fat stock and marketing them before the days of railroads,
and w^as very successful. He continued thus for several years, then, in
1^871, he and C. McGinn erected a building at Charlotte and engaged in the
mercantile business. After a year or two he bought Mr. McGinn's interest
and he has continued to conduct the business alone and has been rewarded
with abundant success. In the early days he was obliged to do credit
business, and the most he ever lost in one year was about one hundred dollars.
His business grew until he was not only busy himself, but his wife and
various clerks assisted. He has several farms, and he is also a stockholder
in the Farmers and Merchants Bank at Charlotte, Iowa. He has built three
valuable properties, which he rents. He has furnished coal to the people of
this vicinity for thirty years, and since 1881 he has been engaged in buying
and shipping grain. He has been very successful in whatever line he has
turned his attention to, and he is one of the leading financiers and men of
commerce in this vicinity, and has done as much as any other man for
the good of the town and community. During Cleveland's administration
he was appointed postmaster and filled the position for four years in a
very creditable manner. He has witnessed and been a most important par-
ticipant in the general development of the town and surrounding country,

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 947

and he is widely known and commands the respect and confidence of the peo-
ple. Politically, he is a Democrat and he has filled the office of tax collector
for several years. He has been a notary public since 1876 and he has per-
formed a great deal of successful business. He was reared in the Catholic
faith and has never departed from the mother church.

Mr. Hanrahan was married to Mary O' Toole, who was born in Can-
ada and who has made a w^orthy and faithful helpmeet. She is the daughter
of Thomas O'Toole, of Ireland, who came to Canada in an early day, thence
to Clinton county in 1853, having had but very little capital when he reached
here. He first rented a farm, later bought and sold farms and engaged in
stock raising, feeding and shipping. He made a specialty of grading up
young short-horn cattle, visiting cattle countries and bringing voung thor-
oughbred stock to this county, becoming widely known as a stock man, and
thus by his industry he created a large estate. Politically, he was a Demo-
crat and he filled the office of justice of the peace. His death occurred May
20, 1908. He was a member of the Catholic church and was a good and
useful man, honored by all. In his family were ten children, an equal number
of sons and daughters, the wife of the subject being the third in order of
birth.

The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hanrahan :
Frank is assisting his father in the store ; Laura is still at home ; Charles is
assistant cashier in the Farmers and Merchants Savings Bank at Charlotte;
Birdie is the wife of Frank Monahan, undertaker ; Aloysius is assisting his
father in the store ; Sarah is at home and is engaged in teaching music.

HANS H. CHRISTENSEN.

One of the young and progressive farmers of the vicinity of Calamus,
Clinton county, is Hans H. Christensen, who has achieved success because
he has worked for it along legitimate lines and has left no stone unturned
to better himself, and judging by the strides he has made toward the goal
of success in the past, the future holds for him much of prortiise.

Mr. Christensen was born in this county on June 7, 1876, and is the
son of Hans and Bertha (Faltensen) Christensen, both natives of Norway,
the father born on September 12, 1822, and the mother on December 12,
1832. They grew to maturity in their native land and were educated there,
coming to America when single and locating in Clinton county, Iowa, the

948 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

father emigrating here in 1857, and the mother in 1861, and here they were
married in 1862. Eight children were born to them, six of whom are hving.
The paternal grandmother. Bertha Christensen, came to this county from
Norway with her son Hans, father of the subject, and here she spent her
last days. Hans Christensen was a farmer by profession and he became
the owner of a good farm of one hundred and sixty acres, on which he
spent the remainder of his life, dying on August 14, 1884. In politics he
was a Republican, and he and his family were members of the Lutheran
church. The mother of the subject is still living, and is making her home
with her son, Hans H. She is now advanced in years, but is active and
keeps her home neat and attractive.

Hans H. Christensen was reared on the home farm, which he assisted in
developing, having been put to work in the fields when but a lad, and he at-
tended the neighboring schools during the winter months. He has devoted
his life to farming and is managing the homestead of one hundred and sixty
acres in an able and successful manner, keeping the place well improved and
handling some good stock. Politically he is a Republican, but he has never
been an office seeker. He is a member of the Lutheran church. Mr. Chris-
tensen has remained unmarried.

JOHN N. HOMRIGHAUSEN.

The farms of Clinton county are well suited to the raising and feeding
of cattle. Luxuriant pastures offer in the growing seasons of the year the
best of nourishment for the animals which are to become food for mankind,
and the cornfields yield a product which is most easily and profitably mar-
keted by feeding it to stock \vhere grown. Stock feeding maintains the fer-
tility of the soil better than any other means can, and thus the stock feeders
are the farmers who obtain the largest yields from cultivated crops. But,
like most other branches of farming, stock feeding is not profitable unless
managed along systematic business principles, as the Homrighausen Brothers
have done, and they owe their success as stock dealers to the same methods.

John N. Homrighausen was born in Clinton county, Iowa, on the old
Homrighausen homestead, on April 9, 1870, the son of John H. and Marie
Christine (Peek) Homrighausen. John H. Homrighausen was born in Ger-
many on July 12, 1827, and came to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1864. Here

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MRS. MARIE HOMRIGHAUSEN

JOHN H. HOMRIGHAUSEN

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 949

he was married on December 5, 1868, his wife, who was also a native of Ger-
many, having been born on October 23, 1845. They \vere the parents of six
children : John N. ; Charles L. ; Elizabeth, now the wife of Fred Rowold, of
Wheatland; Anna, the wife of William Hoker, a farmer of Liberty town-
ship; Fred, a farmer of Spring Rock township; and Mary, the wife of Ferdi-
nand H. Schneider, of Spring Rock township.

John H. Homrighausen settled on one hundred and twenty acres in
Clinton county, and added to this until he owned at the time of his death three
hundred acres of land. In politics he was a Democrat and he and his family
were members of the Reformed church. Hard working, honest and thrifty,
he accumulated a considerable estate, and was a man who had many friends
and possessed a strong influence in his community. His death occurred on
July 15, 1893; his wife survived until May 19, 1909.

John N. Homrighausen grew up on the farm and attended the district
schools. As soon as he was old enough, he began to help on the farm, and
has made farming his business since. He now owns two hundred and ten
acres of the homestead, on which he carries On general farming and stock
raising. His brother, Charles L. Homrighausen, who was born in Spring
Rock township on October 19, 1871, owns one hundred ^nd seven acres of
land, and he and John N. farm together under the firm name of Homrig-
hausen Brothers, and also are dealers in cattle and stock feeders. Their suc-
cess has been marked. Both brothers are unmarried, both are stanch Demo-
crats, and both are members of the Reformed church. Charles L. and John
N. Homrighausen are clean cut, straightforward young men, of the type
which one likes to meet, and their past success can only augur a more pros-
perous future.

HARRY E. BEEBY.

Clinton county has been especially honored in the character and career
of one who has forged his way to the front by a strong inherent force and
well directed intelligence and judgment, and who stands today among the
representative men of Charlotte and vicinity. No man in his locality oc-
cupies a more honored place in the estimation of his fellow citizens than
Harry E. Beeby, prominent stock and business man and vice-president of
the Farmers and Merchants Savings Bank of Charlotte, a man who has done
much for the general upbuilding of his vicinity and who is eminently de-

950 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

serving of the large success he has achieved and the esteem of his fellow-
men.

Mr. Beeby was born in Clinton county, Iowa, May 3, 1870, and he was
reared on a farm and educated in the district schools. He is the son of
Daniel E. and Peninah (Reed) Beeby, the father a native of England and
the mother of Pennsylvania. They were married in Clinton county, and
the father came to Iowa in an early day and bought land and improved a
farni, to which they added until they owned about seven hundred and fifty
acres of general farming land and raised stock, later fed and shipped to the
market. The father was a successful farmer. He was a Republican, but
never aspired to office. He came here with small means and by hard work
and honest dealing improved four farms and created a substantial estate. He
was born on January 26, 1822. He was sociable and enjoyed the society
of his friends. He was charitable to the afflicted and needy, a good friend
and neighbor. He was well known and highly respected, his integrity and
honor being above reproach. He was reared in the church of England, from
which faith he never departed. He died on February 2, 1908. His wife
preceded him to the grave, dying on Februarys 22, 1900. She was the
daughter of Paul Reed, of Pennsylvania, who was, in an early day, a steam
boat pilot on the Monongahela and Ohio rivers. He came to the vicinity of
Galena, Illinois, in 1850, and Paul died at Hanover soon after the family
moved to this county. He was a Republican, but held no office. He was a
widely known man, especially along the rivers as a result of his long boat-
ing career, and was highly respected by all who knew him. Following is a list of
his children: William, S. P., Joshua, Jeremiah, Emma, Ann E., Permina
and August. The children born to the subject's father were C. W., a stock
shipper; Sylvester, who died in September, 1904, leaving a wife and two
children; Francis D., a farmer, died in 1903, a single man; Harry E., of
this review; Alice M., Mrs. Jos. Yando; John died young.

Harry E. Beeby was reared in Clinton county on a farm and remained
under the parental roof until he was twenty-four years old, when he rented
the homestead farm and the father retired to Charlotte. He worked the
old farm, and continued renting until his father's will gave him the farm
and he remained there.

Mr. Beeby was married in February, 1899. He engaged in general
farming and raised, fed and shipped stock, continuing on the farm until March,
1910, when he moved to Charlotte, where he resides. Later he sold a por-
tion of the old farm and bought other land in this township, which place
he conducts himself for grass and feeding stock. He continued feeding and

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 95 1

shipping- stock and in 1907 he assisted in organizing the Farmers and
Merchants Savings Bank, of Charlotte, took stock and helped make a strong
institution of it. At the first meeting and organization of the directors
he was made vice-president and director, which position he yet holds. The
bank has a capital of twenty-five thousand dollars and the standing of the
officers and directors is a guarantee to the depositors of safety, and this is
recognized as among the very solid institutions of Clinton county. Mr.
Beel>y is a strong Republican, 1>ut does not aspire to political preferment.
He is a worthy member of the Modern Woodmen of Charlotte, and is widely
known throughout Clinton county and commands the universal respect of
all who know him.

Mr. Beeby married Hattie M. Seeley. who was born in Clinton county
in 1870, a lady of intelligence and culture and the daughter of W. H. and
Lib (McClure) Seeley. The parents were married in the county. The
Seeleys are all from the state of New York, where the father of Mrs. Beeby
enlisted in the Union army and served through the war and then settled in
this county. He saw hard service and underwent deprivations and hard-
ships such as was meted out to soldier life. When he settled here he soon
afterward engaged in farming, which he continued until March, 19 lo, when
he retired to Clinton. He filed on a hundred and sixty-acre tract of land in
1899 in Dakota where he improved and settled a farm, and where he con-
tinued until he sold out in 19 10. He lias a competency for his old age and
also draws a pension. Politically, he is a Republican. He is a strictly moral
man and a faithful soldier and commands the respect of all who know him.
His children are: Arch, Nettie, Hattie (wife of the subject), William, Ida,
Loring, Earl and Lloyd.

Two children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Beeby, namely : Flossie,
born June 3, 1900, and Ruby, born May 28, 1902.

FRED T. MUELLER.

One of the best known and influential citizens of the vicinity of Buena
Vista, Clinton county, is Fred J. Mueller, the representative of an ex-
cellent old family and a man who has labored along such lines of high en-
deavor as to secure success in any field. He was born in Henry county,
Illinois, in 1864, and he is the son of Henry and Margaret (Garneart)
Mueller, both born in Germany, where they grew to maturity, but came
single to America and located in Illinois where they were married and
there they took up farming. In 1864, shortly after the birth of their son,

952 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

Fred J., of this review, the family moved to CHnton county, Iowa, and
located on a farm adjoining on the east the present Mueller farm, buying
three hundred and twenty acres, which they improved and on which they
lived and farmed for many years, then moved to Calamus and there died,
but his widow is still living in that town. The elder Mueller was a general
farmer and stock raiser and was very successful, especially in raising
Durham cattle. He was influential in his community, but was no public man,
preferring to lead a quiet life. His family consisted of ten children, an
equal number of sons and daughters, eight of whom are still living. He
was a member of the Lutheran church and a Democrat.

Fred J. Mueller, of this review, was educated in the home schools
and when young in years turned his attention to farming, which he always
followed. He has a good farm of one hundred and twenty acres and is a
general farmer and stock raiser. He is a stockholder in the Farmers and
Business Men's Mutual Telephone Company.

Mr. Mueller was married in 1894 to Agnes Kuehl. who was born in
Scott county, Iowa, the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Kuehl,
early settlers in Scott county.

Owing to the prominence of the subject's father, Henry Mueller, the
following paragraphs of this sketch will be devoted to his career. He was
born June 3, 1833, and was the son of David Mueller, who came to the
United States in 1854, and located at Hampton, Illinois, and there en-
gaged in farming. Heniy Mueller married, in i860, Margaret Carneart,
who was born in Germany. She left Germany with her parents, Henry
and Marie (Bevall) Carneart, on May 10, 1854. They settled in Chicago,
where they remained three months, then moved to Hampton, Rock Island
county, Illinois, where they began farming. The parents died in Illinois.

After his marriage Henry Mueller lived in Illinois until 1864, when
he moved to Clinton county, Iowa, and bought a farm where Henry Mueller,
Jr., now lives. He became the owner of three hundred and twenty acres,
which he improved and on which he lived until 1896, when he retired to
Calamus, where he resided until his death. His widow is still living in
Calamus. They were always members of the Lutheran church.

WILLIAM A. TYLER.

An enterprising and highly respected citizen of Camanche township,
Clinton county, who is deserving of the success he has achieved during his
long years of labor in this, his native community, is William A. Tyler, a man

THE NEW ^'aRK
PUBLIC LlBllAllY

T>r ■ ■ 0. NltA'-'IONS

MRS. HULDA TYLER

WILLIAM A. TVLER

.^^ YORK

■>:wv. :;:v

^DATIOSS
L

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 953

who has sought to maintain the high standard of Hving set by his family and
has therefore won the esteem of his neighbors and acquaintances.

Mr. Tyler was born in this township and county, September 12, 1848,
and is the son of John A. and Phoebe (Pearsall) Tyler, the father born in
Ohio, ]\Iay 21, 1824, and died August 20, 1871 ; the mother was a native of
New York, born December 9, 1827, and died in January, 1873. They were
married in Clinton county, Iowa, about 1840, and entered one hundred and
sixty acres of land in Camanche township and followed farming all his life.
He was one of the well known and influential pioneer settlers of this county
and a highly respected citizen. He was a worthy member of the Masonic
order.

The paternal grandparents of William A. Tyler were Carley and Eliza-
beth (Simcox) Tyler. Carley Tyler, a sterling pioneer, was born in Vermont
in 1792, and in his earlier years was engaged in rafting lumber on the St.
Lawrence river. He enlisted in the army during the war of 1812 and fought
at the battles of Plattsburg and Lundy's Lane, and served until the close of
the contest. In 1818 "Uncle" Tyler, as he was familiarly knoXvn, joined the
Masonic fraternity, taking the degrees in a lodge at Utica, New York, and
he was sixty years a Mason, always living in accordance to its worthy pre-
cepts. He emigrated in 18 19 to Shalersville. Portage county, Ohio, then the
far-off Western frontier, where he married, in 1820, Elizabeth Simcox, and
they remained there until 1842 engaged in general farming, during his twen-
ty-two years' residence there clearing, improving, partially broke and erected
buildings upon nine farms, selling each as soon as thus improved. When it
is remembered that each of these farms had to be literally chopped out of the
dense timber, a conception can be formed of the vast amount of labor re-
quired during those twenty-two years. In 11842 he moved to Clinton county,
Iowa, making the journey from Shalersville to Cleveland by team, thence to
Chicago (a little hamlet in a swamp) by water, and thence to Camanche by
team. Here he bought, for a horse, saddle and bridle, the pre-emption right
to what is known as the Ten Broeck farm, two miles southwest of Clinton,
which, after some years, he sold, and purchased from a Mr. Goddard what
is known now as the Miles place, some four miles west of Camanche, where
he rented until about the opening of the Civil war, after which time he lived
principally in Camanche. He was successful in his labors and laid by a com-
petency for his old age. His death occurred on July 21, 1878, in his eighty-
seventh year.

In the early days of Masonry in Clinton county, when Camanche Lodge
No. 60 and Mount Moriah Chapter No. 19 were instituted, the one in 1856

954 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

and the other in 1857, and there were no Masonic bodies nearer than Daven-
port, their meetings were sure to draw numbers from many miles around, and
upon their rolls are to be found the names of very many who have since be-
come prominent in every walk of life. These oldtimers will recall Carley
Tyler, then an aged man, as tyler of both these bodies, he having been a
charter member of each. He was a good and useful man, was one of the
oldest settlers of Clinton county and one of the oldest and worthiest Masons
in the county. His memory was undimmed up to the last and it was indeed
interesting to listen to his reminiscences, and, looking ever on the bright side
of life and, having a keen sense of the ludicrous, his fund of anecdotes of
pioneer days and the war of 181 2 was full and entertaining. He was a type
of the old stock who, in defense of honor and right, did not flinch before the
bayonets of Wellington's veterans and "who did not hesitate, with rifle on one
shoulder and axe on the other, to hew from the dark and gloomy woods
happy and sunny homes. His like is not met with nowadays.

Carley Tyler's wife, Elizabeth Simcox, was born November 19, 1802,
in the state of Ohio, and there she grew to maturity, marrying Mr. Tyler in
181 5, and to this union nine children were born, named in order of birth as
follows: George C, March 9, 1822; John A., father of the subject, already
mentioned; Royal. October 4, 1826; Rahama, December 27, 1829; Horace
Weaver, April 6, 1832. died November 11, 1892; Nancy, June 8, 1835;
Jerome, February 3, 1838; Stearns, December 13, 1842; Chancy, June 30,
1844. Of these children. Rahama is the wife of N. Walrod, and Nancy is the
wife of J. A. Walrod.

The death of the mother of these children occurred on February 6,
1890. at the advanced age of ninety-three years. She was widely known
and loved by all, having been a remarkable woman, kind, charitable and gen-
ial. She was a faithful member of the Baptist church, with which she became
identified in 1829, and lived a consecrated Christian life, and died in the faith,
happily and with fortitude, as had her worthy husband many years before.

The second house built in the city of Clinton, now standing, was erected
by Royal Tyler, mentioned above. It is of stone and was put up in 1839.

Four sons and three daughters were born to Mr. and Mrs. John A. Tyler,
parents of the subject, all living except one, namely: George D. ; William
A. of this review; Mary, wife of George Muhs ; Amelia, wife of C. B. Ro-
man; Charles E. ; Henry F. ; and Adaline (deceased). Those living make
their home in Clinton county.

William A. Tyler received a limited education in the common schools
and began life for himself at the age of sixteen years, when he started in as

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 955

clerk in a general store at Canianche. He subsequently took up farming and
this has l>een his principal life work. He was married on September 14,
1869, to Hulda M. Stafford, daughter of Winchell and Sarah Stafford, of
Montgomery county, Iowa. Her father was supervisor of his county two
terms. He was a farmer by occupation. Mrs. Tyler's only brother, Frank,
is deceased ; her two sisters are Mrs. M. Prichard and Mrs. D. Vetter, both
living at Grant, Montgomery county, Iowa.

Mr. and Mrs. Tyler began their married life on rented land in Montgom-
ery county, and in 1870 they came to Clinton county, this state, and pur-
chased eighty acres, which they later sold and moved on the homestead farm.
In 1883 they moved on their present farm, then consisting of one hundred
and seventy-two acres, adding to this from time to time until they now have
a fine and well improved farm of three hundred acres, very productive and
under a high state of cultivation. Their residence was destroyed by fire in
1902, and it has been replaced by a beautiful, commodious and modern home;
an excellent liarn and good minor improvements have also been made ; in
fact, everything about the place is of the best type and indicates prosperity
and good management.

Mr. Tyler has been a very successful farmer and business man. He al-
ways keeps a good grade of live stock, and has an excellent dairy. He sep-
arates his cream, which he ships daily, and he finds a very ready market for
his dairy products.

He has served his township as trustee for two terms and was secretary
of the school board for twenty-four years. In politics he is a Democrat and
takes an active part in local affairs and, in fact, is regarded as one of the
leaders in county politics, always interested in the general welfare of the
same and ready to do his full share in promoting the public good. He is
prominent in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is a member and
liberal supporter of the Baptist church. Mr. and Mrs. Tyler are members
of the Old Settlers' Association. They are popular throughout the county,
numbering their friends by the limits of their acquaintance only, and no fam-
ily in the county is held in higher esteem.

To Mr. and Mrs. William A. Tyler nine children have been born, name-
ly: Kittie M., July 17, 1870, is the wife of John Livingston and they have
two children, Ruth and Helen: Clara E., iVpril 6, 1872; Bruce, June 3, 1874,
died May 21, 1878; Fannie M., who is the wife of E. Olson, was born Feb-
ruary 14, 1877. and they have one son. Ellsworth; Mary J., July 17, 1879, is

956 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

the wife of Willem Allar; George E., October 29, 1881 ; Harry A., December
31, 1883; William R., May 25, 1886; Raymond A.. July 8, i'890. They are
all receiving good educations and careful home training.

CHRIS SCHROEDER.

One of the successful farmers and business men of Deep Creek township,
Clinton county, is Chris Schroeder, whose life has been led in a manner that
has brought no offense to any one and has resulted in great good to his neigh-
bors, friends, and in fact, the community in general, and he is in every way,
deserving of the success he has achieved. He was born in the province of
Holstein. Germany, July 24, 1864. He came with his parents to America in
1880, and was reared on a farm. He was educated in his native country and
in the district schools of Iowa, receiving a good elementary education. He is
a son of Otto and Wiepke (Rostack) Schroeder, both of Holstein, Germany.
The father, who was a laborer, came to America in the year indicated above,
landed at New York and came by rail to Clinton county, Iowa. When he
came he had very small means and for the first year he worked as a farm hand.
The second year he bought a small farm, and he found by this investment that
he had hard work ahead, but was equal to the occasion. In 1898 he sold out
and bought property at Goose Lake, remaining retired until 1901, when he sold
out and has since made his home with one of his sons. By hard work and
honest dealing he created a competency for his old age. In politics he was
independent and claimed the right to vote for the man of his choice, regardless
of politics. He never aspired to office himself. He was reared in the
Lutheran church, from which faitli he never departed. He is social and en-
joys his friends around him, charitable to the afflicted and needy, a good friend
and neighbor. He is widely known and highly respected and his honor and
integrity is above reproach. He is now, at the ripe age of eighty-two years,
well presented and hearty. His wife yet survives, at the age of eighty-eight
years. She belongs to the same church. She is his second wife, and was a
widow, Margaret Wiese, with two children, whom he reared and brought to
this country. His first wife and mother of the subject died in the old country,
where he married the second wife. By the first wife, he had five children,
namely: John, who died in 1881, aged twenty-three years: Dora, Mrs. Gosch,
of Goose Lake ; August is a farmer in Jackson county ; Herman, who lives in
Waterford township ; and Chris, of this review.

MRS. MINNIE SCHROEDER

CHRIS. SCHROEDER

vi* ''

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 957

The subject was born in the old country and came to America with his
fatlier and remained under the parental roof until his marriage, in 1888. He
then bought the old homestead and did general farming, continuing this voca-
tion until 1894, when he bought ninety acres additional land and continued
this work until 1899, when he sold out and rented two years near Bryant, and
in 1901 bought his present farm and moved to it in 1902, where he has since
remained. He has two hundred and twenty-three acres in section 15, Deep
Creek township. He is a general farmer and raises stock and feeds cattle and
hogs for the market in Chicago. He has been successful in all his undertak-
ings. He is a stockholder and director in the Goose Lake Bank, also vice-
president of the Preston Telephone Company. He is public spirited and
enterprising and ready to help build up the county. Politically, he is a Demo-
crat and well posted in all public affairs. He was elected secretary of schools
and in the same year was elected township trustee, being made president of the
board. He was elected director in 1908 of the Goose Lake Bank, which insti-
tution he helped to promote and organize, and it has been a success and is
among the solid institutions of the county. In 1908 he was elected vice-presi-
dent of the telephone company. All these positions he has filled with credit
to himself and satisfactorily to the people concerned. He was reared in the
Lutheran church, and from that faith he has never departed.

Mr. Schroeder was married to Minnie Kruse. who was born in this town-
ship in 1866, a worthy wife and good helpmate. She is the daughter of Hans
and Margaret (Peterson) Kruse, both coming from Germany in 1853. Her
father became a prominent farmer and stock raiser in this township. He took
little interest in politics and held no office. He was also a Lutheran, and among
the early settlers, and a large family of the same name and connection settled in
Deep Creek towmship. He was widely known, a man highly respected, of
sterling integrity and honor. He died in 1901, at the age of sixty-seven
years, .leaving a good estate. His first wife preceded him in death, dying in
1887, and he again married, his last wife being a widow, Frederica Bartel, also
from the old country, and she yet survives. There were no children by his
last marriage, but eleven were born to the first marriage, all dying young ex-
cept four: Minnie, wife of the subject; Peter is a farmer on the old home-
stead ; Fred is a farmer on the same place : Emil is a farmer.

To Mr. and Mrs. Schroeder six children have been born, namely : Ed-
ward, born May 25, 1889; Emil, born May 25, 1891 ; Herman, born August
24, 1893; Elfrieda, born September 3. 1896; Leroy, born July i, 1901 ; Ralph,
born October 14, 1905.

958 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

LEWIS C. BROOMFELDT.

It is doubtful if any agriculturist in Center township, Clinton county,
understands better the modern methods of farming than Lewis C. Broom feldt,
and he has the ingenuity and persistency to so apply them as to reap the best
results. He was born in this county on September 23, 1869. the son of J.
Frederick and Margaretta (Joehnk) Broomfeldt, natives of Germany, the
father having come to xA.merica about 1855 with his parents, Claus D. and
wife, and located in Clinton county, Iowa, purchasing a farm of Chris Freeze,
the latter having purchased it from the government. This land was in turn
purchased by the subject and is now owned by him. His parents were married
in this county. When a young man the father was employed as a laborer on
what was known as the Calico railroad. He and the subject's grandfather led
lives typical of pioneers in the early settlement of this county, when they
farmed with somewhat primitive implements compared with those used today,
when the wheels of their farm wagons were sawn from the bodies of trees and
drawn by oxen. They often had to go to Davenport to get labor during a
busy season, but perseverance and energy won a good home and they became
well established, being successful as early day farmers. The father's family
consisted of eleven children, four sons and seven daughters, four of whom are
living: Bertha, now Mrs. Peter Schroeder; Cathrina, now Mrs. H. Mundt;
Dors, now Mrs. M. Hansen ; those deceased are, Lena, Maggie, Anna, Emma,
August, Henry and Fred.

Lewis C. Broomfeldt. in his boyhood, recei\'ed a good common school
education. When a young man he spent three years in western Iowa and
southeastern Missouri. Returning to his childhood home, he was married,
on April 22. 1892, to Pauline, daughter of Anton and Migraetha Stolten-
berg, who were natives of Germany, from which country they came to
America in 1867. locating in Clinton county, Iowa. The father was a
stone-mason by trade. This family now lives near Mason City, Iowa,
where the father purchased a farm. His family consists of thirteen chil-
dren, of whom ele\-en are living, Mrs. Broomfeldt being the fourth in
order of birth.

Mr. Broomfeldt began his married life on his present farm, the home-
stead of his father, and here he soon got a good start. J. Frederick
Broom feldt' s death occurred February 23. 1885, and his widow was subse-
quently married to Jurger Stoltenberg and they now reside at Clinton, she
having sold the homestead to her son, Lewis C. The place consists of

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA, 959

one hundred and sixty acres of well improved land, on which he has just
completed a very attractive and modern residence of ten rooms. It is
heated by a furnace and other modern equipment is found throughout. It
was erected at a cost of three thousand dollars. He has erected and re-
modeled other buildings on the place, having now substantial improvements
of all kinds. He is an up-to-date farmer and successful business man. and
merits the respect and confidence of his neighbors. He keeps an excellent
grade of stock of all kinds and feeds a great deal for the market.

Mr. Broomfeldt and his wife are members of the Lutheran church.
Politically, he is a stanch Democrat and. is active in party affairs. There
are seven children in this family, named as follows: Fred, born August 12,
1892; George, born August 22, 1894; Herman, born December 15, 1896;
Margaretha, born July 29, 1899; Edmund, born July 22, 1901, and his death
occurred on June 3, 1905; Louise, born March 10, 1907; Raymond, born
June II, 1909.

HORACE M. COSSINS.

One of the substantial citizens of Bloomfield township, Clinton county,
is Horace M. Cossins, hardware merchant at Delmar. He is a man who,
while advancing his own interests, does not lose sight of the fact that it
is his duty to lend his influence in furthering the interests of the com-
munity in general. He was born on December 29, i860, near Bellview,
Jackson county, Iowa, and there grew to maturity and was educated. He
is the son of Thomas W. and Elizabeth H. (Sharpless) Cossins, both na-
tives of the state of Pennsylvania, born in Chester and Pottsville, respec-
tively. They were reared on farms and educated in their communities,
and when they reached maturity were married in the Keystone state, leav-
ing their native hills soon afterwards, however, and coming to Iowa. They
located in Jackson county on a farm, near Bellview, about 1846 and there
developed a good farm from the wild conditions then existing there, mak-
ing a very comfortable home. About 1865 they sold out and bought a farm
west of Bellview and there the father continued to resid-e until about 1885,
when he sold his place and moved to Maquoketa, Iowa, and there he and
his wife spent the remainder of their lives, the father dying in 1895, when
about seventy-six years old, and the mother in 1905, also about seventy-six
years old. She was a member of the Congregational church. Six chil-
dren were born to them, namely : Mrs. Eannie Goodenow lives in Maquo-

960 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

keta; Mrs. Josephine Burgess lives in Montana; Mrs. Anna Dorchester also
lives in Montana; Horace M., of this review; Mrs. Ella Cundill and Mrs.
Lizzie Nitche, both of Maqtioketa, this state.

Horace M. Cossins made his home on the farm until 1887, when he
came to Delmar, this county, and bought the hardware store of Parker &
Bracket and he has continued to conduct the same to the present time. He
handles a full line of hardware and harness; in fact, carries a very large
and complete line of all kinds of hardware and a full line of light and
heavy harness. His is the only hardware store in Delmar. His trade has
gradually increased with the years until today he has one of the best and
most extensively patronized hardware stores in the county, outside of
Clinton. He handles a splendid line of farming tools and his country trade
extends over a wide range of territory. Owing to the considerate and
honest treatment he has always accorded his customers, they have invari-
ably remained his friends and he is deserving of the large success that he
has achieved in this line.

Mr. Cossins is a member of the Masonic order. Monitor Lodge No.
330, at Delmar, Iowa, and also belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America
at Delmar. Politically he is a Republican. He held the office of treasurer
of the Delmar schools for a period of twenty-three years, during which time
he did all he could for the betterment of the local system.

On September 4, 1889, Mr. Cossins was married to Ella Spencer, who
was born in Canada in 1862, the daughter of Benjamin and Mary E.
(Ware) Spencer, natives of Canada. Mr. and Mrs. Cossins are the parents
of three children, namely: T. Percy, born in 1891; Mary Ruth, born m
1893, and Harlan S., born in 1895. Mr. and Mrs. Cossins are very pleasant
people and their cozy and cheerful home is frequently the gathering place
for their numerous friends.

FRANCIS PATRICK McGINN.

A young man who holds worthy prestige in business circles in Clinton,
who has always been distinctively a man of affairs and who wields a wide
influence among those \vith whom he has been associated and among whom
his lot has been cast, is Francis Patrick McGinn, who has won definite suc-
cess by the exercise of correct principles.

Mr. McGinn was born September 27, 1880, in Clinton county, Iowa, five
miles from the city of Clinton. He is the son of Michael McGinn, who was

FRANCIS P. McGINN

■ '"' LIBKARY

. /!

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 961

born in county Galway, Ireland, and his mother was ^Margaret (Fagin) Mc-
Ginn, who was born in New Jersey and wdiose death occurred in 1890. The
father was a farmer by occupation. He grew to maturity and was educated
in his home community, and he came to America on January 25, 1866, coming
direct to Chnton county, where he rented various farms, here and in Jackson
county, and in 1888 he purchased a farm in Camanche township. He was
very successful as a farmer and had a good home. He finally sold his farm
and retired, making his home in Clinton. Desiring to spend his declining
years in a sunnier clime than this, he went to California some time ago and is
now a resident of Los Angeles. He is a Democrat and a member of the
Catholic church.

To Mr. and Mrs. Michael McGinn three sons and seven daughters were
born, namely: Francis Patrick, of this review^ ; Mamie, Catherine, Margaret,
Rose, Gertrude, Martha : the next child was named Gertrude after the fonner
child by this name who died in infancy; Thomas and John.

Francis Patrick McGinn was educated in the public schools of Camanche
township, this county, and after leaving school he went into the dairy busi-
ness, having Ijeen employed in one until he learned how to manage it. He
conducted one of his own for three and one half years in Clinton where he met
with veiT satisfactory results. He finally sold out and in 1903 started the
"Pantatorium" in Clinton, wliich he conducted until 1907. meeting with much
encouragement from the start. He then began assisting in the establishment
of the well known and popular C. O. D. Cleaning Company in Clinton for a
Davenport firm. In March, 1910, he and Charles M. Fra'hm purchased this
establishment and have since been conducting the same on a larger scale and
have increased the business veiy materially. They are w^ell equipped for the
highest grade of work, and thoroughness and promptness are their watch-
words. Mr. McGinn is a member of the Catholic church and, fraternally, he
belongs to the Knights of Columbus, the Modern Woodmen and the Ben Hur.

Francis P. McGinn was married on October 23, 1906, to Loretta Laugh-
lin, who was born in Lyons, Iowa, April 24, 1883. She is the daughter of
Michael Francis and Elizabeth (Carvel) Laughlin, who live in Lyons, this
county, and are a highly respected family. ■Mr. and Mrs. McGinn have no
children.

OTTO B. ROENNFELDT.

The name of Roennfeldt is one well known in Center township, Clin-
ton countv, where it has been borne by three generations of honorable and
(61)

962 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

upright men and women, whose Hves are here briefly recorded, and who
have been influential and prominent in the annals of their community, where
their presence was ever a force for good and for its best development. .

Claus D. Roennfeldt, the grandfather of the subject of this sketch,

was born in Germany in 1806, and there married Christina . who

was born in 1804. They emigrated to the United States with three children,
two sons and a daughter, in 1852, landing at New Orleans on June 2d of
that year, and coming up the Mississippi in a steamboat, arriving at Daven-
port, Iowa, on Jnne 14th. On August 25th, of the same year, Mr. Roenn-
feldt brought his family to the farm which is now a part of the homestead
of his grandson. Otto. He was one of the first Germans to settle in Center
township and endured the privations incident to the lot of the early settler.
Having borrowed considerable money, he advanced this to his kindred
and friends in the old country to pay their passage to this land. He was
generous even to a fault. Of his three children. Maggie died in 1854, Fred-
erick in 1885, leaving a wife and six children; Mrs. Roennfeldt died in
1856, and Claus D. survived until July 21. 1886.

Hans D. Roennfeldt was reared on the farm and devoted his life to
that calling. He was first married in November. 1858, to Caroline Schwanz,
who died in 1864. On Januaiw 20, 1865, he was married a second time to
Johanna Schroeder. who was born on May 20, 1845. the daughter of Joseph
and Margaret Schroeder. Joseph Schroeder was born on October 31, 1806.
and died on April 11. 1884; his wife was born on October 30, 1816. The
children of Hans D. Roennfeldt are, with the dates of their birth : August
F.. September 24. 1865; Emma F., July 13. 1868; William G., February
20. 1870, died on January 2. 1871 ; Margaret C, February 8, 1872; Caro-
line S , January 11, 1874; Augusta C, January 2, 1876; Herman D., March
18, 1878; Otto B., September 11. 1880; Annie E., August 24, 1883; and
Sophia. May 14. 1885. and died on September 21st of the same year.
Hans D. Roennfeldt died on December 3. 1899. and was buried in Ingwer-
sen cemetery. He was the owner of four hundred acres of land, on which
he erected a handsome residence and a large and convenient barn. He
and his wife were active workers in the Lutheran church, and ]\Ir. Roenn-
feldt was prominent in the local activities of the Republican party. There
were few farmers of his day who could equal him in the conduct of a fami
in the most profitable manner.

Otto B. Roennfeldt was born and reared on the farm and attended
the common schools, and for one vear was a student at the Clinton hi^h

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 963

school. He was married on September 23, 1903, to Ella, the daughter of
Henry and Dora Vogt, of Clinton county. Her father was American
born and her mother a native of Germany. Her father was long a
blacksmith, residing at Goose Lake, this county, and was well known for
miles about. He died on November 21, 1900, of appendicitis, and was
buried at Tngwersen cemetery. His wife still resides at Goose Lake. Dora
was the eldest of four children. Mr. and Mrs. Otto Roennfeldt began
married life on their present farm of two hundred acres, which was the
homestead of his father and grandfather. Mr. Roennfeldt is a hustler
and follows general farming and stock raising, keeping a goodly number
of all kinds of stock, including good grade Shorthorn cattle and draft horses,
ready for the market. The farm is well known for its extensive improve-
ments and for the excellence of its soil. Its owner is a business-like young
man, up-to-date and full of enterprise. In politics he is a Democrat. His
stepmother resides with him. One child has been born to his marriage, a
son, Vernon, born on December 16, 1904.

REV. FR. M. T. HENNESSY.

Such a life as that led by Rev. Fr. M. J. Hennessy, pastor of
St. Patrick's church, near De Witt, Iowa, is to be held up as a worthy
example to the youth of the land. He was born in county Limerick, Ire-
land, in February, 1856. He received an excellent education in the public
schools and in Christian Brothers College, and in the Diocesan College at
Limerick and St. Patrick's College at Thurles, county Tipperary, where he
spent five years. In October, 1879, he came to America and located in
Dubuque, Iowa, where he finished his education and was ordained in
August, 1881, at the cathedral, by Bishop Hennessy. His first appointment
was as assistant to Father O'Dowd, of St. Mary's, temporarily, having re-
mained there two months, then was sent to Boone. Iowa, for a short time, one
month, thence to St. Rose, at Waucoma, Fayette county, Iowa. Then he
was for a period of two years, by appointment, at St. Theresa, Jackson
county, Iowa; he then spent three and one-half years at Monti, Buchanan
county, Iowa, then served St. Patrick's church at Nevada and Colorado.
Then, after serving three years and six months on three charges, in 1898,
he was appointed to the pastorate of St. Patrick's church, Washington

964 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

township, Clinton county, and here he spends his entire time, having no
other charge, and is doing his utmost for the material and spiritual wel-
fare of his congregation, building up the church, as he has done in all his
work, and he is much beloved by all his congregation, being a faithful
and devoted worker. The church was established by a missionarv priest,
the first services being held in a farm house, continuing thus until 1883,
when the present substantial brick structure was erected, at a cost of
twenty-five thousand dollars. J. J. Garland was pastor and Rt. Rev. J.
Hennessy was bishop. The church has a fine altar and is beautifully decor-
ated, spacious and attractive. After its organization the congregation was
first served by Fr. Thomas McCormick, and the first baptism was administered
to Michael McDermot in 1875. The first marriage celebrated here was that
of Henry Winters and Sarah Showalters, by Rev. Fr. McCormick. The
good work has been carried on here by the following priests since his day : J. J.
Gafiny, J. Garland, D. Reardon, T. Kiernan, Fr. Hennessy (nine months),
John ]\Ialoy, and the subject, who took up his work here in August, 1898.
He has kept up the property and placed it in excellent condition, keeping the
place sanitary, attractive and inviting, spending considerable money on the
cemetery and bringing everything up to a high standard of excellence. An
excellent water works system has been installed, hot and cold water being
available, modern bath and up-to-date appliances, all at his own expense.

Politically, he is a Democrat, but reserves the right to vote for the man
whom he deems worthiest to fill the office sought, and he makes no efforts
to be a politician. He is a well educated, genial, good-natured and devout
Christian gentleman.

CHARLES MATTHEW FRAHM.

The life of Charles Matthew' Frahm has not been of an unusual character.
Rather than strange or tragic, it has been quiet and unostentatious, a life that
has resulted in no harm to those who have come under its influence. Though
yet a young man, Mr. Frahm has become well established in business and in
years to come will doubtless hold a high rank in the commercial life of this
community.

Mr. Frahm was born in West Chicago, June 21, 1881, and is the son of
Charles M. and Ida (Schwen) Frahm. the father a native of Davenport, Iowa,
and the mother of Chicago. In the last named city, the father maintained a

CHARLES M. FRAHM

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 965

Store for many years and was a successful retail clothier by occupation, a man
of good business qualifications and correct life principles. His family con-
sisted of four children, namely: Charles M., of this review; Arthur ; Mrs.
Alma Nougey. of Davenport, and Mrs. Ada Swing, of Chicago.

Charles M. Frahm. of this review, was educated in the public schools of
Chicago and when a young man he entered a laundry and learned the business.
He finally moved to Davenport, Iowa, and on November ii, 1907, he was sent
to Clinton, this state, for the purpose of conducting a dyeing and cleaning estab-
lishment, known as the C. O. D. Cleaning Company and owned by a Davenport
firm. Mr. Frahm was financially interested in the l)usiness and, foreseeing
that a local firm would be more successful and 1>etter patronized by Clinton
people, he set about the organization of a local concern, in March, 19 10,
which resulted in he and F. L. McGinn buying the C. O. D. Cleaning Com-
panv and they now operate it for themselves. They are elated over the very
noticeable increase in business during the past few months and are being well
patronized. Their work gives eminent satisfaction, being of a very high
order and promptly and conscientiously done. Their place of business is
properly equipped with the most modern appliances and is operated on im-
proved lines. The honesty and integrity of these gentlemen is unquestioned
and the nature of their work is indicative of their ability and integrity.

Mr. Frahm was married on September 9, 1901. to jNIay Bentler, who
was born in Davenport, Iowa, and is the daughter of John and Lena Bentler.
Her mother died when she was two years old. John Bentler is caretaker of
the United States arsenal on Government Island, between Davenport and
Rock Island. Mr. and Mrs. Frahm have no children.

Mr. Frahm is a member of the Catholic church, the Royal Arcanum and
the Modern Brotherhood of America, and he is faithful in the discharge of
his duties as a church and lodge man.

AARON P. RECORD.

For various reasons Aaron P. Record, one of the substantial and
highly esteemed citizens of Camanche township, Clinton county, is deemed
eligible for specific mention in this volume, not the least of which is the
fact that he was one of the brave "boys in blue" who offered his services
durine the dark davs of the sixties, in defense of the beloved Stars and

966 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA,

Stripes "that have never touched the ground." His Hfe has been one of
honest endeavor and filled with good deeds throughout, and now. in its
golden evening, he is enjoying a respite in his serene and attractive home
at Camanche.

]Mr. Record was born May 30. 1841. in Dutchess county. New York,
the son of Crandal and Mary (Bush) Record. The father was born on
April 5, 1805, and died April 20. 1883. The mother was born Septem-
ber 10, 1803, and died March 9, 1892. They were buried at Union cem-
etery, this county. They emigrated from New York to Clinton county,
Iowa, arriving here on April 5, 1855, and settled in Eden township where
Mr Record purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land and there en-
gaged in farming. They were the parents of three sons, namely: William
H., John P., and Aaron P., of this review: the first two named are deceased.

Aaron P. Record spent his youth at home and his schooling was
limited. When the war between the states began, although he was but
nineteen years of age he proA^ed his patriotism and courage by enlisting,
on July 12, 1861, in Company A, Eighth Iowa Infantry, and he was dis-
charged on April 20, 1866, his services having extended over a period
of four years, nine months and eight days. He is justly proud of his war
record, his long ser\-ice in defense of the Union proving his gallantry and
his loyalty: but few. if any, of the veterans of his company saw longer
service. He was in many important battles, including Shiloh, Vicksburg,
through the siege there; Jackson, Raymond, Champion Hill, and many
others. He was taken prisoner at Shiloh and was confined in prison at
Macon, Georgia, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and Libby, Richmond. Virginia, for
six months and ten days. He was paroled out in November and ex-
changed the following April. Mr. Record saw men fall at his right and
left, had his canteen and haversack shot from his person, but he was never
wounded. He won the praise of his comrades and officers.

Upon his return from the army, Mr. Record, then twenty-four years
old, entered school and spent two and one-half years obtaining a practical
education. He is a well read man, in fact, one of the best posted citi-
zens of this community, having always been an ardent student.

Mr. Record was married February 17, 1875, to Hannah M. Davy,
daughter of William and Mariah Davy. Mrs. Record died June 8, 1881.
To this union three children were born, namely : Mary I., bom December
10. 1875. married Mr. Van Epps, of this county; Bert, born March 9,
1878, married Leta Smith; Blanche L., born December 9, 1880. married
G. L. McKinzie, of Olathe, Kansas, where he is engaged as a florist. The

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 967

father of these children married again, his second wife being Mrs. Carrie
A. Dinsmore, whose maiden name was Coffman ; the daughter of Noah
and Rhoda Coffman. Her father was a native of Indiana, where he w-as
born May 17. 1808. and he died June 26, 1892; the mother was a native
of Ohio and was born November 2. i8ti, dying February 3, 1883. The
parents of Mrs. Record were married on January i, 1832, and they came
to Chnton county, Iowa, in 1855, where they purchased one hundred and
sixty acres of land in Eden township. There Mr. Coffman lived and en-
gaged in farming with the exception of the Inst five years of his life, which
were s])ent in Camanche. whither he had mo\'e(l and where his death oc-
curred. He and his wife are both buried in Union cemetery. They were
the parents of thirteen children, four of \A-hom are living, Mrs. Record
being the tenth in order of birth. The parents were members of the Metho-
dist Episcopal church. Mr. Coffman was a well known and highly re-
soected citizen, honest and upright in all his dealings. Shortly after mov-
ing here he turned his horses out to graze and one of them swarm the Mis-
sissippi river.

Mr. Record began his first married life on his father's farm, which he
purchased on September 14, 1881, pnd where he made his home until 1904,
when he sold his farm and moved to Camanche, where he purchased good
propertv. having moved to this place in order to give his children l^etter
school advantages. For the past eight years he has been employed as
United States mail carrier, delivering the mail from the Northwestern rail-
road station to the Camanche postoffice.

Mr. Record is a member of the Masonic order, having attained the
degree of Knight Temphr. He is also a member of the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows and Knights of Pythias. He is a loyal Republican. Both
he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church.

To Mr. Record's last union one son was born. Vernon. March 3. 1894.
He is a graduate of the Camanche schools and is now taking a college
course. Mr. Record has three grandchildren. Lawn-ence VanEpps, Muriel
Record and Leslie P. McKinzie.

HENRY C. PETERS.

Clinton county is well recognized as being one of the best farming
regions in Iowa, and indeed in the United States, for the best farming

968 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

sections in Iowa ha\'e no superior in this country. Fortunate or wise
were those who early settled on her fertile prairies, whose amazing rich-
ness has brought to them prosperity beyond even their wildest dreams in
early times. Certainly the prairies of Clinton county are a beautiful and
invigorating sight, when covered with the green fields of tasseling corn,
variegated with the verdant sward of the pastures and meadows, on which
fat cattle are grazing. Such sights cause the traveler to envy the lot of
those who, like Mr. Peters, are the owners and cultivators of these wonder-
ful farms.

Henry C. Peters was born in Germany in 1868, and there educated.
In 1882 he came to Clinton county, Iowa, and, recognizing the oppor-
tunities which its farms offered to men of will and ability, selected farming
as his occupation. At present he owns one hundred and sixty acres of
land and carries on general farming and stock raising and feeding. In
this latter especially he has been very successful, and his herds would make
a creditable showing anywhere. In politics he is a Republican, while his
religious affiliations are with the Lutheran church.

Mr. Peters was married in 1894 to Abelina Hilbert, a daughter of
Henry Hilbert, mentioned in this work. To their union have been born
two children, Anna, born March 6, 1896, and Ferdinand, born April 6,
i8q7, both of whom are now attending school, where they are progressing
well.

Mr. Peters is a stanch and sturdy specimen of the thrifty German
farmer, whose industry and energy have put him to the front among agri-
culturists of his township and whose genialty and cleverness have won
for him many friends.

FRANK LOHBERG.

It is proper to judge of the success and the status of a man's life by the
estimation in which he is held by his fellow citizens, for they cannot help but
know the man's character in all his relations with his fellow men. what his
ideas and ideals are, what his aims and ambitions have been and of the things
that go to show the world the attributes of head and heart of the individual.
Frank Lohberg, who is now sleeping in the profound silence of God's Acre,
passed so many successful and useful years here that his worth was well

[

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA; 969

known and no one has ever spoken in disparaging terms of him. All revere
his memory and recall many acts of kindness or charity which he was wont
to perform of the fullness of his heart, but not for the praise of his fellows,
having had the same characteristics of his honored and popular father, Franz
Lohberg, who was one of the notable men of his day and generation in eastern
Iowa.

Frank Lohberg was born October 27, 1866, in Lyons, Clinton county,
Iowa, and he was the son of Franz and Elizabeth (Hoeing) Lohberg, the
father born in 1829 in Westphalia, Germany, he having been the son of
Joseph and Agnes (Benneman) Lohberg. Joseph Lohberg was a man of
many sterling characteristics, which have been handed down to succeeding
generations. Though the smallest of a family of fourteen children, he was
six feet and two inches in height and was well proportioned, being a man of
imposing presence and attractive personality. This family was not only
sturdy physically, but intellectually and morally as well.

Franz Lohberg grew to maturity in his native country and received
a good education in the schools there. He was always more or less a student
and by wide home reading and actual contact with the social and business
world he became a man of high intellectual attainments, well informed on the
current topics of the day and familiar with the world's best literature, although
he led a veiy active and strenuous life. He was a man of rare business
acumen and had his business so systematized in all its departments that he
managed everything with rare ease and sureness. Believing that the United
States held greater advantages for a man of his temperament, he accordingly
emigrated to our shores and located in Ouincy, Illinois, in 1852, and the follow-
ing year found him at Lyons, Iowa, ^^'ith that keen discernment which
characterized his entire career, he foresaw the great future of this locality and
decided to make it the scene of his future operations. For a number of years
he worked for Allen & Waynecup. He was a brewer by profession, and a most
excellent one. so that his services were in great demand. He saved his earn-
ings and when the lumbering industry was in its infancy here, he purchased
the McGill lumber business, which he managed in a manner that brought him
an ample competency and stamped him as one of the leading lumber dealers in
this part of the state. His business gradually increased from year to year and
branched out over an extensive field by reason of his judicious management.
His grandsons, mentioned below, are continuing the business successfully, fol-
lowing out the lines which he inaugurated. He took an interest in public
affairs, and, in fact, whatever tended to the general advancement of Lyons

970 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

and Clinton county, and was one of the substantial and prominent citizens of
this locality, no man being more influential in local affairs. He was one of
the founders of the German Club here. The death of Franz Lohberg occurred
about twenty years ago, on May 6, 1891, but he is still Well remembered and
his influence still pervades and inspires the lives of many who were closely
associated with him, for he had made a host of friends here and was popular
among them. He married Elizabeth Hoeing in 1853, in Quincy, Illinois.
She was born on July 4, 1827, and is still living, making her home on
Division street, Lyons, Iowa. She has been a most faithful helpmeet and
her counsel and encouragement were responsible in no small degree for her
husband's phenomenal success and popularity.

Two children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Franz Lohberg, one daughter
dying in infancy, and Frank, the immediate subject of this review. This
family are stanch Catholics and have always been liberal supporters of the
mother church.

Frank Lohberg was reared in Lyons and received a good education in the
local schools. He worked for his father in the lumber business until the
latter's death and then took charge of the same and managed it in a very able
and successful manner for a period of six years. On August 23, 1907, he
sold out to Ingwersen & Berbeck, and on October 17th of that year his death
occurred, his taking off while yet in the zenith of life's powers and usefulness
being a saddening blow to his many friends. He was a member of the
Masonic fraternity and worthily upheld the high principles of this time-hon-
ored order.

Mr. Lohberg was married in June, 1887, to Minnie Forret. She is a
lady of admirable personality and has a wide circle of friends here. She is
the daughter of Jacob and Louisa (Gundenfinger) Forret, of Preston, Iowa,
her birth having occurred in 1871. Her parents were people of fine character-
istics and well known in their neighborhood.

Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lohberg. named as
follows: Franz, Fred and Louis, all young men of splendid business attain-
ments and worthy sons of worthy forbears, who are striving to uphold the
untarnished escutcheon of an honored family name.

The neat, commodious and well furnished home of Mrs. Lohberg is at
Division and Main streets, Lyons, and here is frequently shared a genuine
hospitality with the many friends of herself and family.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 971

JOHN EDWARD SCHOENTHALER.

The state of Iowa is a farming state, and owes its high rank in production
among the states to the value of its farm products, while of the citizens who
have given the state such a high reputation for the character of its inhabitants,
the greater number are active residents of the agricultural districts. Iowa
farmers are known throughout the nation as honorable, substantial and pros-
perous men, and Mr. Schoenthaler is a farmer high above the ordinary, one
of the best lowan type.

John Edward Schoenthaler was born in Jackson county. Iowa, on July i8,
1 871', the son of John Schoenthaler, mentioned in this work. He w^as reared
in Elwood, Clinton county, to which place his parents moved when he was six
years old, and there attended the public schools. In 1903 he moved to the
fami of eighty acres on which he now resides, which his father had bought
in 1902. Here he carries on general farming and stock raising very profitably.
In politics he is a Democrat. Fraternally he is a member of the Modern
Woodmen of America, and he and his family attend the Lutheran church.

On February 20, 1895, Mr. Schoenthaler w^as married to Amanda Jorgen-
sen, born in Berlin township, Clinton county, the daughter of Soren and Bertha
Jorgensen. To this marriage have been born two children, Louise Ottillie,
born on March 22, 11896, and Orville Leon, born on December 20, 1901.

Soren Jorgensen w^as born in Denmark on January 10, 1846, the son of
Neilson and Christina (Frederickson) Jorgensen, natives of Denmark. His
parents spent their lives in Denmark, his father being a farmer by occupation.
Of their family of six, four, Christina, Mary, Bertha and Marian, are still
living in Denmark; one son, Jergen, lives in Dakota. Soren attended school
in Denmark, and when twenty years of age emigrated to Wisconsin, where
he worked on a farm for one year. He then came to Clinton county and be-
gan to rent in Brookfield township, then, in 1872, bought eighty acres in Ber-
lin township, where he now^ lives and carries on general farming. Since com-
ing to this country he has 1)een a member of the Republican party and has
served as school director. He and his family are members of the Lutheran
church. On June 26, 1869, he was married to Bertha Roden, who was born
in Bluegrass, Scott county, Iowa, the daughter of E. A. Roden. Some years
after her death he was married to Ottillie Roden, who was born in Scott county
on November 4, 1858. Mr. Jorgensen is the father of five children, Albert,
Mrs. Caroline Minster, Mrs. Amanda Schoenthaler, Laura, and Lawrence.
His neighbors esteem him highly for his integrity and uprightness.

Mr. Schoenthaler is one of the more progressive young farmers of his
township, and very practical in all his work.

972 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

LANGWORTHY J. BUELL.

The labors of Langworthy J. Buell, well known citizen of Hampshire
township, this county, have been directed along such worthy and conservative
lines as to bring definite results, and he now finds himself in possession of
valuable property and a comfortable home as a result of his long years of
persistent labor and careful planning.

Mr. Buell was born in Lyons, Iowa, September 8, 1854. He is the son
of Elijah Buell, who had the distinction of being the first settler of Clinton
county and who was a prominent and influential character here in the days
of the pioneers and who is given prominent mention in this work.

The subject was next to the youngest child in his family. He was edu-
cated in the public schools and grew to maturity on the home place. He later
attended the Clinton Business College, and in 1872 and 1873 he took the
scientific agricultural course at the university at Ames, Iowa. Thus well
equipped for his life work, he returned to Lyons, after leaving college, and
lived with his father until he was married, which event took place on March
4, 1878, to Sarah Andice Henderson, who was born February 7, 1859, in Ohio.
This union has resulted in the birth of the following children : Gladys, bom
May 26, 1880, is deceased; Cleon, of Chicago, was born on May 30, 1882,
and is the wife of Dr. Harry V. Shaw; Lloyd L. was born July 18, 1886;
George, now deceased, was born March 8, 1889.

In 1878 Mr. Buell came to a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in
Hampshire township. His father had entered forty acres from the govern-
ment. He has placed many substantial improvements on the place and has
been verv successful as a farmer and stock man, having devoted a great deal
of his attention to raising shorthorn cattle for twenty-five years, but he now
carries on mixed farming. He has an excellent farm and a comfortable
home. It is located in the northeast quarter of section 35, township 82.
range 6.

Politically he is a Democrat. He takes a great deal of interest in local
afi^airs and has held the offices of school director, etc., also some of the town-
ship offices. He was township clerk for six years and trustee for two 5'ears.
Like his honored father before him, he takes an interest in whatever tends to
the betterment of the county in any way and he is recognized as a leader in
local affairs. He is a man whose word is as good if not better than the bond
of many men, and he takes a delight in meeting his fellow men half way and
on the square. By such characteristics he has won their confidence and uni-
versal respect and maintained the high standard of citizenship set by his hon-
ored father.

LANGWORTHY J. BUELL

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CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 973

LOUIS E. FAY.

Ill this review are mentioned briefly the facts in the Hfe of the gentle-
man who founded the business now carried on by himself and his brother
under the name of Fay Brothers. Fay Brothers are without question
the most successful publishers of a newspaper in Clinton, and their paper
substantiates all claims made in its behalf.

Louis E. Fay was born at De Witt, Clinton county, Iowa, September
21, 1 86 1, the son of Horace Amsden and Calista J. (Darrah) Fay. Horace
Amsden Fay was born in Lebanon, Grafton county, New Hampshire,
December 7, 1827. His father was Joseph Packard Fay, who was born
in Belchertown, Massachusetts, April 25, 1792, and died at Concord, New
Hampshire, September 9, 1872. Charlotte (Hyde) Fay, his mother, was
born in Norwich, Vermont. June 6, 1792, and died in Concord, New Hamp-
shire, February 15, 1872.

Barnabas Fay, the father of Joseph P., was born in Hard wick, Mas-
sachusetts, October 30, 1758, and served in the Revolution under Wash-
ington, crossing the Delaware with him, and enduring the terrible winter
at Valley Forge. His wife, Chloe (Packard) Fay, was born in Bridge-
water, Massachusetts, November 22, 1762, and died at Lebanon, New
Hampshire, July 19, 1848. For several years previous to her death she
drew a pension as a Revolutionary widow. James Fay, the father of
Barnabas, sen-ed in the Revolution and died in the army. Barnabas Fay,
with five children, moved to Lebanon, New Hampshire, near the close of
the last century and established a cloth dresser's business. About 1816
he and his son, Joseph P., moved to a farm near Lebanon, New Hampshire,
where Horace A. Fay was born.

Horace A. Fay attended the common schools and had one term at the
Lebanon Liberal Institute, but was prevented from going to college by
financial reverses which overtook the family. For a time he worked in a
grocery store and was for the seven years from 1843 to 1850 employed in
a carpet and crockery warehouse, at the expiration of which time he went
in with his employer, the firm bearing the name of Page & Fay. Their
store burned and what goods were saved were removed to the rotunda of
the State House. Mr. Fay sold his interest, and the next spring, together
with others, erected the Merchants Exchange building, then the largest and
best in the city. He was a Democrat, strong against disunionism and
Knownothingism. In 1856 he made many speeches in favor of Buchanan,

974 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

the burden of which was devotion to the Union. There was then a strong
disunion sentiment in New Hampshire and Mr. Fay made many enemies.
He was a member of the committee of seven appointed by the Democrats
of Concord to receive President Pierce on his visit to Concord that year.

In the spring of 1857 Mr. Fay sold out his stock of goods and went
west immediately after the election, intending to go to St. Anthony's Falls,
now Minneapolis, but at Chicago he met a former townsman, Governor
Baker, and with him came to Clinton, Iowa. Here he and C. H. Toll
bought a raft of lumber and shipped it to De Witt, and in July Mr. Fay
built a wa'rehouse opposite the depot at De Witt. In September, 1857,
he returned to New Hampshire, and on the 15th of that month was mar-
ried to Calista J. Darrah, the daughter of Isaac and Rachel (Watts) Darrah,
of Bedford. The bridal couple came to De Witt and began housekeeping
in rooms over the warehouse, where they stayed for a year. Mr. Fay then
entered the stock and grain buying business and was the first to take out
a "broker's license" in De Witt. He handled most of the money in the
town, one year five hundred thousand dollars passing through his hands.
In 1864 he bought land near De W^itt and farmed most of the time until
i'874. when he bought an interest in the Clinton Chair Company, and worked
as bookkeeper for the company one year, then returned to his farm. In
1877 he entered P. B. Wolfe's office as a real estate agent, and had been
there but a short time when J. C. Hopkins, the editor and publisher of the
Clinton County Advertiser, asked Judge Wolfe to recommend a good man
to him as correspondent at De Witt for the Advertiser. He recommended
Mr. Fav, who was immediatelv engao:ed and entered his new field with much
energy. That year the circulation of the paper was so much increased
that the board of supervisors elected it as one of the official papers of the
county, and in 1883 the De Witt office was moved to Mr. Fay's new build-
ing- In that same year his son purchased the paper. Horace A. Fay re-
mained actively connected with the Advertiser as De Witt editor until his
death, on March 18, 1905. For many years he had been a member of the
school board of De Witt, being first elected in 1866, and was a long time
justice of the peace. He \vas a man of much public spirit, and was much in-
terested in all advancement. His wife died on January 16, 1910.

Louis E. Fay was born September 21, 1861, at De Witt, and attended
school there in the winter, spending his summers on the farm. When sixteen
he entered the Advertiser office as a "devil" at three dollars per week. He
was a faithful worker and eager to please, soon became foreman of the

CLINTON COUNTY, TOWA. 975

office, then local editor and later manager. He thus learned all branches
of the business, being a practical printer, as well as having served in editorial
capacities. In 1883 he purchased the Advertiser from its proprietor, and
carried on the business as sole proprietor until 1885, when his brother,
Clarence A. (see his sketch) joined him, and the firm of Fay Brothers was
then organized. This firm has since published the paper, and have given
their close attention to it. The growth of the paper in circulation and
volume of advertising and reading matter has been remarkable. In 19 10
the CI in toil Daily Advertiser had a sworn circulation of over eleven thous-
and, and its publishers guarantee that its circulation is greater than that of
all the other Clinton county papers combined. The Advertiser has taken a
prominent part in the discussion of local affairs, has been on the people's side
and led fights for them, notably for lower gas and pure water. Though pub-
lished in Lyons, the Advertiser was a strong supporter of annexation to Clin-
ton, and led that successful fight. It is a strong Democratic organ, and is
veiy energetic in discussion of political matters during campaigns, but at other
times is quiet, the aim of its publishers being to carry on a good newspaper
rather than to be the mouthpiece of a political organization. The Advertiser
took a leading part in the prosecution of a gang of thieves who were working
in Clinton and other parts of the state from 1902 to 1905, and thus broke up
the gang.

Mr. Fay is active in Democratic politics, was chairman of the congres-
sional committee for several years, and was a candidate for elector on the
Democratic state ticket in 1905. He is a member of the Masons, the Eastern
Star, the Elks, the Eagles, the Mystic Workers, the Woodmen of the World,
the Modern Woodmen of America, and of the Royal Neighbors. He is presi-
dent of the corporation of Fay Brothers, vice-president of the Citizens Build-
ing Association.

Louis E. Fay was married on February i, 1888, to Amelia Gottlob
Thomas, the daughter of Paulina Gottlob Thomas of Lyons. To this mar-
riage three children have been born: Horace Amsden, on November 12,
1888; Carl Harding, on November 16, 1890, both now working in the Ad-
vertiser office; and Louis E., Jr., born January 5, 1903.

Mr. Fay is a thorough type of the indomitable and determined man of
brains and ability, who goes about affairs with the intention to succeed, and
does so.

9/6 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

MARSHALL SPRING BIDWELL GAGE.

The name of Marshall Spring Bidwell Gage will long be remembered in
Clinton county, for he was for years a prominent figure in business circles and
in the life of the city of Lyons and vicinity, and his character was such as to
commend him to the youth of the land who desire to make the most of their
chances in all circles. By his courage and energy he climbed steadily and
persistently and stood firmly upon each round of the ladder until he could
reach the next above and plant himself thereon. He won the confidence of all
with whom he came into contact and had no difficulty in retaining the same,
for his course was always honorable, steadfast and trustworthy and he had
friends by the score wherever he was known.

Mr. Gage was born in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, August 25, 1837. ^^'^^^
he came of an old family of sterling worth, being the son of James Philip and
Alary Jane (Davis) Gage. The father was born on June 10, 1810, in Can-
ada; his wife was also born in that Dominion, and they were reared, educated
and married there, and came to Jackson county, Iowa, in 1854, where they
remained four years, coming to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1858, locating in
Lyons. Here the father erected what is known as the Gage block and there
established a grocery store. He became prominent in business circles here
and. with the Rands and others, established the First National Bank at Lyons,
and he was the first president of that noted institution, his judicious manage-
ment of its affairs being largely responsible for its rapid development. In
1873 he established the Farmers and Citizens Savings Bank, now known as
the Merchants National Bank. He had a genius for organizing and promot-
ing such institutions, was a man of keen discernment and figured prominently
in large business affairs, — in fact, was for years looked upon as a leader in
business circles and was one of the prominent men of this city. He was a
man of pleasing address, a good mixer and everybody liked him. He was
independent in politics. His death occurred on April 2, 1883.

James P. Gage was married to Mary Jane Davis on November 24. 1836,
and this union resulted in the birth of one child. IMarshall S. B., of this re-
view. His first wife having passed to her rest on February 7, 1857. James
P. Gage was again married in 1858. his last wife being Helen Julia Buck, of
Canada, and this union resulted in the birth of three children.

Marshall S. B. Gage was reared on a farm in Canada and he built up a
robust constitution by work in the fields. He received a good education, which
was subsequently augmented by actual contact with the business world and
by continued home reading. He came to Lyons, Iowa, With his parents in

MARSHALL S. B. GAGE

THE NEW t-OM

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 977

,1858, and he began his business career by clerking for a period of ten years
in his father's grocery store. He then went into the First National Bank of
Lyons for the purpose of learning the banking business, and by close applica-
tion he made rapid progress and in 1873 was cashier of the Farmers and
Citizens Savings Bank. He became well known in banking circles and by
his careful attention to business and his integrity and pleasing manners he
was popular with all the patrons of these institutions. Owing to ill health
Mr. Gage found it necessary to retire, and his death occurred on February 4,
1891. The latter years of his life he devoted, very largely, to travel for
health and pleasure. Politically he was a Democrat, and in fraternal matters
he was a Alason and belonged to the Knights of Honor.

Mr. Gage was married on August 12, 1857, to Agnes Graham, daughter
of Henry Ferguson and Agnes (Rosenbarger) Graham, a highly respected
and well known family. Mrs. Gage was born on January 27, 1841, in Water-
down, Ontario, Canada. Her parents were old settlers of Jackson county,
Iowa, where they spent the latter part of their lives and where they died.
To Mr. and Mrs. Gage six children were born, three of whom are now living,
namely: Carrie, wife of Virtus Lund, Jr.; Frank, of Lyons; and Mira, wife
of O. D. Earon, of Chicago.

The Gage residence at No. 704 South Fifth street, Lyons, is a commodi-
ous and attractive one and is known to the many friends of the family as a
place of old-time hospitality.

. HENRY DIERKS.

A descendant of an old and prominent family of Clinton county and a
man who has long been regarded as one of the leading agriculturists and stock
men of Deep Creek township is Henry Dierks, a man who believes in doing
everything well that is worth doing at all, consequently he has succeeded.

Mr. Dierks was born in Hampshire township, Clinton county, Iowa.
July 26, 1859. was reared to farmer's pursuits and was educated in the district
schools. He is a son of John and Catherine (Lass) Dierks, both born in
Germany, where they were married and remained until five children were born.
In 1848 they emigrated to America in a sailing vessel, and after a long voy-
age, finally landed at New York and came direct to Lyons, Iowa, where John
met a brother, Peter Dierks. Soon afterward he rented a farm, in the cultiva-
(62)

9/8 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

tion of which he was successful. A few years later he bought a farm in
Hampshire township and settled there, and later added and owned eight hun-
dred acres, and engaged in general farming and raising stock, also feed for the
market. His first purchase was mostly timber land. He bought raw land,
which he cleared and improved. He was successful and was always proud
of his adopted land. He was a Republican and filled some school offices, but
did not aspire to political preferment. He never returned to his native
country. He was social and charitable to the afflicted and was a good neigh-
bor and friend, was well known and highly respected, his integrity and honor
being above reproach. He died in 1897; his wife died about 1887. Relig-
iously, they were Lutherans. Their children were : Hans, a retired farmer at
Ringwood, Clinton county, Iowa ; Anna, Mrs. Christ Lueders ; John, a farmer
at Lyons, retired ; Detliff was a farmer, retired, and died in July, 1909, leaving
a wife and five children; Katie, Mrs. George Agger; Peter is a farmer on
the old homestead ; Henry, of this review.

The subject was born in this county and remained under. the parental
roof until he was married in 1881, and he remained on the home farm until
1890, when he bought the improved farm where he now resides, two hun-
dred and sixty acres at fifty-eight and one-half dollars per acre. He has re-
modeled the farm and put it in convenient shape for cultivation, all under
fence and in grass. He cultivates about one hundred acres. He carries on
general farming and raises stock of all kinds of a good class, feeds and ships
cattle to the Chicago market. He has remodeled and enlarged his home,
which stands on a natural elevation surrounded by forest and fruit trees,
cement walks and yard. He has erected a large barn and now has two or
three barns and many outhouses for various purposes, and has a finely im-
proved, farm. in a high state of cultivation. He has used his surplus money
in his farm business. He is a stockholder in the Goose Lake Bank. He is
independent in politics, having voted both tickets, he claiming the right to
vote for the man of his choice. He has never aspired to office, but has filled
some school offices. He is rearing and educating his children to be upright
citizens.

Mr. Dierks married Lena Rix, who was born in Hampshire township
in 1867, a daughter of George Rix, of Germany, who came to America about
1858, locating in Clinton county; he was a wagonmaker by trade, which he
followed and worked at the Six Mile House, this county, where he has a com-
fortable home. He still does some work at his trade. He is a Republican
and well posted in all public afifairs, and has filled some township offices. He

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 979

has given most of his time and attention to his trade, and does not aspire
to office or pubhc notoriety, being a quiet, honest mechanic, well known and
highly respected for his sterling integrity and honor. His wife yet survives,
she being sixty-three and he seventy years of age. He served through the
Civil war as a private and saw much hard service and underwent many dep-
rivations and hardships, as was meted out to soldier life.

The following children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Rix : Helena, wife of
the subject: Emma married Gustaf Werner and she died in 1907; Ida, Bertha,
Anna and Katie all died young; Theodore is a farmer; Dora, Mrs. John
Harmsen ; Henry is a coal dealer. To Mr. and Mrs. Dierks six children have
been born, Emil, Alford, Lewis, Ernest, Mata and Gustave, all at home.

MYRON C. MUDGE.

Among the well known and highly respected citizens of Welton township,
Clinton county, is Myron C. Mudge, a man who has lived a life consistent
with high ideals and who has made a success of his chosen vocation because
he has applied himself very carefully to whatever he has had in hand.

Mr. Mudge was born on July 24, 1848, in Poultney, Vermont. He is
the son of Nathan and Elza (Prior) Mudge, the father a native of Plymouth,
Vermont, born there on November 8, 1800, and the mother born on May 16,
1803. They were married in 1829, and became the parents of nine children,
six of whom are living. The parents of Mr. Mudge came to Jones county,
Iowa, in 1854, locating on a farm, and here the fathers death occurred on
November 11, 1863, and the death of his wife occurred at St. Joseph, Mis-
souri, in about 1880. She had been making her home with her eldest daugh-
ter there and was buried at Burlington, Iowa. In politics Nathan Mudge
was a Whig originally and later a Republican. He and his family were Free-
Will Baptists and were known as people of the greatest probity of character.

Myron C. Mudge was reared on a farm and educated in the public schools.
He came to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1864, and here he was married to
Clemena C. Hull, a native of Milton, Wisconsin, and the daughter of Elder
Varnnm Hull, a minister in the Seventh-Day Baptist church. His wife was
known in her maidenhood as Malinda Larkin, and she is still living, having
attained the ripe old age of ninety-three years. She has been a remarkable
woman, possessed of many splendid attributes of character. Mr. Hull's death

980 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

occurred at Rock River, Wisconsin. To Mr. and Mrs. Mudge three children
have been born, namely : Hattie Odessa, Leola Marcia, deceased, and May
Evaline.

Mr. Mudge has been a farmer much of his life and he has been very
successful as such a worker. He had eighty acres of land in Welton town-
ship, and in 1889 he moved to North Welton and engaged in the mercantile
business, which he continued with ever-increasing success, building up a large
and satisfactory patronage with the people of this vicinity as a result of his
honest dealing and his desire to please his customers.

Politically, Mr. Mudge is a Republican and while he has never found
time to mingle in political affairs to a large extent, he has shown that he is
deeply interested in local matters, and he has been school director for a num-
ber of years. He and his family are members of the Seventh-Day Baptist
church and very faithful in their allegiance to the same. They have a nice
home here and the entire family is highly respected throughout this locality.

CALVIN H. GEORGE.

The inevitable law of destiny accords to tireless energy and industr}^ a
successful and honorable career, and in no field of endeavor is there greater
opportunity for advancement than that of the law, a profession whose votaries,
if distinguished, must be endowed with native talent, rectitude of character,
singleness of purpose and broad general knowledge. Calvin H. George, of
Clinton, Iowa, fully meets all these requirements of his chosen profession
and stands today among the leading lawyers of his city and is justly esteemed
as one of the foremost attorneys of eastern Iowa, and yet he is a plain, un-
assuming gentleman who does not court publicity, merely striving to do his
duty well in all the relations of life.

Mr. George was born at Garden Plain, Whiteside county, Illinois, Janu-
ary 14, 1862. He is the son of Daniel F. and Mary Jane (Mitchell) George,
the father a native of Conway, New Hampshire, and the mother of Ohio.
The maternal grandfather. David Mitchell, was a pioneer of Whiteside county,
Illinois, and was the foreman of the first grand jury ever held in Wliiteside
county, and was the first county treasurer of that county. Daniel F. George
was also a pioneer farmer of Whiteside county, Illinois. He. soon after com-
ing west, was pilot of a vessel which plied between Chicago and St. Joseph,

CALVIN H. GEORGE

'IHE NEW WM.

-\?T,'^R. lENOX, AND

JDUi4DATI0N3

ji I,

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 981

Michigan. He was esteemed for his many kind and charitable acts and honor-
able character. In the early days he hauled his grain from Garden Plain to
Chicago with an ox team and underwent the hardships incident to the life of
a pioneer and was known for his great courage and fortitude.

Calvin H. George grew to maturity on the home farm. He attended the
county schools during the winter months, then went to Drake University of
Iowa, and later took a course at the Valparaiso (Indiana) University, from
which institution he graduated. Thus well equipped for what the poets would
call the battle of life, he began his career by teaching in the county schools,
but, having an ambition to enter the legal profession, he left the school room
and began the study of law, reading law while teaching school. His preceptors
were I. R. Andrews and Hon. A. R. McCoy, of Clinton, Iowa. Mr. George
having located in Clinton county when a young man, was admitted to the bar
in 1888, bv the supreme court of Iowa and the United States courts licensed
him to practice in all courts. Since that time his record has been one of suc-
cesses such as few attain. He opened an office in the Toll block, and he has
been continuously in the practice here since, building up a large, constantly
growing and lucrative practice and taking a high rank among his professional
brethren of eastern Iowa, being a diligent student of all phases of juris-
prudence and a vigorous, energetic and independent thinker and an investi-
gator, accurate, painstaking and conscientious. He is uniformly courteous to
the court and lenient with his opponents, and he is an earnest, logical and
forceful, often eloquent, pleader at the bar, never failing to impress forcibly
his hearers.

Recognizing his ability and his interest in the welfare of the city and
county, he was called by the people to serve them one term as city attorney
and three terms as county attorney, performing his duties in a manner that
reflected credit upon himself and to the satisfaction of the citizens, irrespective
of party. He is a member of the library board, and fraternally he belongs to
the Masonic order, the Knights of Pythias, the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks.

The domestic life of Mr. George began when he led to the hymeneal altar
a lady of talent, culture and character, known in her maidenhood as Goldie R.
Reno, of Marengo, Iowa, daughter of Col. B. F. Reno and a representative of
a distinguished family of army officers. To this union eight children have
born born, one dying in infancy, those now living being: Dorothy A., Helen
M., Elizabeth M., Daniel V., David B., Margaret R. and Ruth A., all attend-
ing the public schools in Clinton.

982 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

HENRY C. VOSS.

A descendant of one of the early and prominent families of Clinton
county is Henry C. Voss, a man who has won success in life because he has
worked for it along legitimate lines, believing in employing twentieth century
methods in all his undertakings.

Mr. Voss was born in Clinton county, October i, 1864, and was reared
on a farm and educated in the district schools. He is a son of Fritz and
Cathrena Voss. both natives of the province of Holstein, Germany. They
came to America at different times, when single, and married in New York.
They came to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1862 and for two years he was em-
ployed at such labor as he could find to do, then rented land and engaged in
farming. He came, as did most of the people from his countiy, very short of
means, so hard work, which had no terrors for him, fell to him. After rent-
ing a farm for a number of years, successfully saving his earnings, he bought
eighty acres of land which had poor improvements and a small amount of
which was in cultivation. But he soon put it in better shape and kept working
hard, early an4 late, and he later added to the land until he owned two hun-
dred acres. He put it all under fence and about one hundred acres in culti-
vation; the remainder he left to grass. The entire farm was susceptible to
cultivation. He did a general farming business and raised live stock, and
fed for the market each year over two car loads, shipping them to Chicago
market. He gave his attention to the farm and its products and was very
successful. It took nerve and determination to accomplish what he did, but
he was equal to the occasion. He underwent all the deprivations and hard-
ships of an early settler, and by hard work, honest dealing and good financing
he was rewarded with success and created a good estate. He was a strong
Democrat, but never aspired to office. He was reared in- the Lutheran church,
from which faith he has never departed. He was well posted in all business
matters and politics, a broad-minded and intelligent business man, a good
financier and well known and highly respected, his integrity and honor being
above reproach. He died Februaiw 23, 1901, aged sixty-six years. His wife
yet survives and finds a good home among her children, mostly with her son,
the subject of this sketch. She is now seventy-two years old. She was
reared in and has always affiliated with the Lutheran church. She has six
children, viz: Augusta, Mrs. H. Dorman, who died and left three children;
Henry C, of this review: Anton is running the Tenth Mile house, and is a
popular man; Ella, Mrs. John Neave : Frances, Mrs. John Dick; Johanna,
Mrs. F. Passic.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 983

Henry C. Voss, of this review, remained tinder the parental roof until he
was twenty-eight years old, when he married. He was young when his father
moved to the homestead, and there he grew to manhood, helping his father on
the farm. When twenty-eight years old he married, in the year 1893, then
rented the homestead farm one year, after which he rented another farm and
moved on to it. He remained a renter on that farm for five years, then again
rented the homestead for three years. In 1902 he bought out the interests
of the other heirs and has since successfully carried forward the work inaugu-
rated by his father, general farming and raising and feeding of live stock for
the market; he ships to the Chicago market. He has invested some of his
surplus in the Goose Lake Bank stock, but gives most of his attention to the
farm and its products. Politically he is a stanch Democrat in local politics,
though he reserves the right to vote for the man of his choice. He was
brought up in the Lutheran church, from which faith he has never departed.
He has made considerable improvement on his farm, has erected another large
bam and keeps all buildings in good repair and the farm in a high state of
cultivation. The house is a large two-story frame, situated on a natural ele-
vated site, beautiful with forest and fruit trees. He has added to the sanitary
conditions, by a spacious lawn and cement sidewalks around the house and
yard; he has also put in a large amount of tiling on the farm, to aid in the
agricultural development of the same. He is a practical and successful farmer
and stock handler, and among the well known and highly respected citizens
of Deep Creek township.

Mr. Voss married Emma Andersen, who was born in Clinton county,
Iowa, in 1870, daughter of Casper Andersen, an early settler and a promi-
nent farmer from Germany, province of Holstein ; his wife, Johanna Schlem-
mer, was also a native of Germany. The family were early settlers in Clinton
county. The father came with limited means and rented and farmed a few
years, then bought one hundred and twenty acres of land in Hampshire town-
ship. It was a small and poorly improved farm, but he was energetic and
made substantial improvements and was a good farmer and hard worker.
He remained there during the rest of -his life, and died on March 6, 1908.
He was a member of the Lutheran church and a Democrat in politics. He
followed general farming, raising live stock for the market, and by hard work
and honest dealing created a competency for his old age. His wife survived
him and makes her home with a daughter. Mr. Andersen had one son and
four daughters by a previous marriage. His son Henry owns and runs a
grist mill and handles lumber at Bryant. By his last marriage the following

984 CLINTON county;, IOWA.

children were born; Emma, wife of the subject; Laura, Mrs. George Bach;
Alvina. Mrs. John Brett; Mattie, Mrs. H. Dierks; Adolph, who hves on the
old homestead. The union of Mr. and Mrs. Voss has been blessed with the
following children; Malinda, born November 20, 1893, is at home; George,
born February 22, 1895; Augusta, born March 25, 11897; Lucinda, born
September 30, 1900; Loretta, born June 17, 1902; Hannah, born March 3,
1904; Henry, born April 21, 1906, and Alma, born June 5, 1908.

CAPT. JOSEPH D. FEGAN.

Among the leading citizens of Clinton is numbered Capt. Joseph D.
Fegan, who for many years was successfully engaged in the abstract and
real estate business in this city. He was born in Franklin county, Pennsyl-
vania, July 26, 183 1, receiving a common school education. His father served
in the war of 181 2-14 in the Pennsylvania Volunteers and died in 1842,
leaving a widow and family, the subject of this sketch being eleven years old.
His mother soon thereafter died, leaving him to care for himself. In 1849
he emigrated to Clinton county, Iowa, and followed the trade of a tailor, but
at the commencement of the Rebellion he was engaged in the lumber and
grain business at Wheatland, Iowa. In the meantime, however, he married
Anne M. Potts, whose father had served in the Black Hawk war, and whose
grandfather was an officer of the regular army in 1779.

As soon as Mr. Fegan could put his business in proper shape to leave,
he entered the service as a private in Company I, Twenty-sixth Iowa Infantry,
August 12. 1862. He was promoted sergeant and then sergeant-major,
September 12, 1862, and mustered in September 30, 1862. He was appointed
first lieutenant and regimental adjutant on the field at the battle of Arkansas
Post, January 11, 1863, and promoted captain of Company B, January 15,
1864. to rank from June 12, 1863. The regiment served at Helena, Arkansas,
under General Hovey, to December, 1862, and was then assigned to the Third
Brigade, Fourth Division (Steele's) of Sherman's right wing of the Thirteenth
Army Corps. In January, 1863, it was transferred to the Third Brigade,
First Division, Fifteenth Corps, and in November, 1863, formed part of the
First Brigade, First Division, Fifteenth Corps, where it remained until Febru-
ary, 1865.

Captain Fegan served with the regiment in various expeditions from
Helena, and in General Sherman's Yazoo expedition, participating in the en-

O' - D . F'E Gy\Nr

:;lBuA.ii'^.

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 985

gagements at Chickasaw Bayou and Chickasaw Bkiffs, from December 26-29,
1862. He then took part in the expedition to Arkansas Post, and was engaged
in the assauU and capture of Fort Hindman, January lo-ii, 1863. After
several other expeditions he returned with his regiment to Milhken's Bend,
Louisiana, and in April. 1863. started on the campaign, with the Fifteenth
Corps, which terminated in the capture of Vicksburg, Mississippi, having
been engaged at Turkey Creek ; Jackson, Mississippi ; Champion Hills, Baker's
Creek, crossing of the Big Black River, attack on Vicksburg. May 18. and
in the assault. May 19-22. 1863. After the surrender, started with the ad-
vance against Johnston's army, participating in the siege of Jackson and
Brandon, Mississippi.

In September the regiment was transferred to Memphis by boat, and
marched to Chattanooga, participating in the engagements and battles around
that place from November 23-27; Lookout Mountain, November 24; Mission-
ary Ridge. November 25 ; and Ringgold. November 27. at which last-named
place he was slightly wounded, but remained on duty. He participated in
the Atlanta campaign from May until September. 1864. and was engaged at
Snake Creek Gap, Resoca, Adairsville, Dallas, Pumpkin-vine Creek, Altoona,
New Hope Church. Ackworth. Kenesaw Mountain. Big Shanty, Nickajack
Creek, Chattahoochie River, Bald Hill, Atlanta. Ezra Chapel. Jonesborough.
Lovejoy's Station, and pursuit of Hood's army into Alabama, being engaged
at Kingston and Ship Gap. He participated in the "March to the Sea," and
engaged in the siege of Savannah, Georgia. He performed the duties of act-
ing assistant adjutant-general. First Brigade, First Division, Fifteenth Corps,
from November 7. 1864. to January 21, 1865. He was commissioned as cap-
tain and assistant adjutant-general February 3. 1865. and participated in the
march tlirough the Carolinas. and all the actions consequent thereon, up to the
surrender of Johnston's army. He also marched with Sherman's army to
Washington City, and participated in the Grand Review.

Captain Fegan was transferred to Louisville. Kentucky, and then to Lit-
tle Rock, Arkansas, where he was mustered out September 19, 1865. Captain
Fegan counts as one of his valuable possessions his commission, signed by
President Lincoln and Secretary of War E. M. Stanton, which promoted him
from a line captain to a position on the staff as assistant adjutant-general of
volunteers.

After the war Captain Fegan returned to Clinton and became county
recorder, holding such office four years. He has always been prominent in
social circles, being a member of N. B. Baker Post No. 88. Grand Army of

986 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

the Republic, of Clinton, the military order of the Loyal Legion of the United
States; the Society of the Army of the Tennessee and for sixty years has
been an honorary member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

On coming to Iowa he had only a five-franc piece and the prosperity
which he has enjoyed and the success of which his wife and three children- are
proud has been due entirely to his own unaided efforts.

DESCARTES L. PASCAL.

The name of Descartes L. Pascal, successful agriculturist, stock raiser
and seed corn specialist, of Orange township, Clinton county, Iowa, has been
circulated broadcast, in a way, throughout the United States. His motto has
always been to do well whatever was worth doing at all, and this has, no doubt,
been largely responsible for his pronounced success along the lines to which
he has turned his attention. He is deserving in every way of the esteem ac-
corded him by all who know him, for he has ever sought to bear aloft the un-
tarnished escutcheon of an honored family name.

Mr. Pascal was born August 18, 1870, four miles east of De Witt. Clin-
ton county, and in the fall of that year he was brought to the farm on which
he now lives and which has been his place of abode most of his life. When,
fifteen years of age he left school and spent two summers in western Iowa.
He is the son of George W. Pascal and wife, an excellent old family of this
township. He enjoyed the advantages of a liberal education, having attended
school at Grand Mound and De Witt, graduating from the high school at
the latter place. After he became of age he went to western Iowa, where for
a year he followed photography. Then he spent one term in Cornell College,
at Mt. Vernon, Iowa, preparing to enter the Michigan State University at
Ann Arbor, where he expected to study mechanical engineering. In 1893 he
was employed on the fair grounds of the Columbian Exposition (World's
Fair) at Chicago, as a Columbian Guard. The following year he taught
school and in the fall he started for Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he expected
to enter the university to take up mechanical engineering. On his way he
stopped at the old home to see his parents for a few days. His father was
taken ill and requested him to remain at home, which he did. The father's
illness proved fatal, and so, for the time being, the subject gave up his plans
for education in order to remain with his mother and sisters at the old home,
expecting to, at some future time, complete his collegiate studies. But, like

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA, 987

many others, he sacrificed his ambition for education in order that the old
home might still be home for his mother.

Mr. Pascal formerly operated four hundred and ten acres of land, to
which he has recently added sixty-three acres. He has been engaged in gen-
eral farming on his fine tract of land for the past sixteen years, and by hard
work and persistent application, coupled with sound judgment and an ana-
lytical mind, he has achieved the success which is always the reward of the de-
serving. In 1902 Mr. Pascal became interested in corn breeding and has
demonstrated to the world the great value of corn breeding. In making a
specialty of seed corn culture, he chiefly raised "Reid's Yellow Dent," which
is eagerly sought for owing to the high quality of his seed. He has shipped
seed corn to over twenty-five states of the Union and even to the Transvaal
agricultural department of South Africa. In 1903 he produced the best ear of
corn in Iowa, which won the Cook trophy. Aalued at fifteen hundred dollars,
awarded at Ames, Iowa, for the best ear of corn. In 1906 he raised an ear of
corn which was exhibited at Ames, Iowa, in January, 1907, and which won
the first prize, and which sold at public auction for one hundred and fifty dol-

lars, or at the rate of eight thousand eight hundred and fifty dollars a bushel.
This is the more remarkable when it is remembered that the highest priced ear
ever sold before only bix>ught eleven dollars. This wonderful ear of corn was
exhibited in December. 1907, at the national corn show at Chicago as champion
of the world, being recognized as the finest ear ever exhil^ited. By request, it
was also exhibited at the national corn show held at Omaha, Nebraska, in
December. 1908. It has been exhibited throughout the United States. Mr.
Pascal had formerly won numerous prizes at exhibitions and he has won a
wide reputation in this way. He is also a successful breeder of shorthorn
cattle.

Mr. Pascal is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and.
politically, he is a Republican. The extensive business in which he is engaged
is under the firm name of D. L. Pascal & Sisters, the latter being Lucy A.,
who makes her home on the farm with her brother and mother, and Laura T.,
a teacher of Gennan in the public schools of Lakewood, Ohio, both being
ladies of education, business tact and culture.

988 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

GILBERT LAWRENCE TEMPLE.

One rarely finds two persons in every-day life who attribute their suc-
cess in their different spheres to similar qualities. Hard work and plodding
industry paved the way for one, good judgment and a keen sense of values
for another, intuition and a well balanced mind for the third. An admixture
of the qualities mentioned above, with others, emphasized by close application,
was responsible for the success of Gilbert Lawrence Temple, the late well
known and popular photographer of Clinton, Iowa, in his battle for the spoils
of victory.

Mr. Temple was the scion of a sterling family of the old Buckeye state,
and he himself was born in Delaware county, Ohio, on November 4, 1852.
He was the son of Gilbert and Rebecca (Thatcher) Temple. The father, a suc-
cessful farmer and school teacher, died in 1862, He was a Republican and a
member of the Presbyterian church. His widow survived him until 1874.
They were the parents of five children, four of whom are now living.

Gilbert L. Temple, of this review, received an excellent education in the
common schools and at Otterbein University, where he learned the art of
photography, having always manifested a tendency toward the esthetics, so
he made rapid progress in this line and won the admiration of his colleagues
and instructors for high-grade work in his chosen vocation. He located at
Beloit, Wisconsin, in 1869, where he remained about a year, then went to
Cleveland, Ohio, and later to Clinton, Iowa, in 1873. where he re-
mained, having built up a very satisfactory patronage and won a wide repu-
tation for a grade of work second to none, his customers often coming
from remote parts of the country. He always kept fully abreast of the
times on all matters pertaining to his art.

Foliticall}', ^Ir. Teni'^l" '-as a Republican, and in religions matters an
Episcopalian. He was prominent in Masonic circles, having attained the
thirty-second degree. He was also a member of the Benevolent and Protec-
tive Order of Elks. His death occurred on Alay 9, 1911.

Mr. Temple was married on September 9, 1872, to Eliza Smith, a native
of Canada and the representative of a family of sterling worth. This union
has been graced by the birth of two children, Ruth, the wife of Charles S.
Knox, of Cedar Rapids, and Edith, wife of Daniel G. Swannell, of Champaign,
Illinois.

WILLIAM C. KUEHN.

William C. Kuehn was born in Deep Creek township, Clinton county,
Iowa, in 1870, a son of Christian and Elizabeth (C'ook) Kuehn. Christian

GILBERT L. TEMPLE

l.'.V YORK

•IJ^UARY

A>>u % LKNOK, AiJD
TILPFX FOrNDATlONS

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 989

was born in the city of Burg, on the island of Famen, which is a part of Den-
mark, ctnd has since been annexed to the German empire. EHzaljeth was born
in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Christian came to America in 1852, when
about nineteen years of age, located in Clinton county, and took up farming.
He owned a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in De Witt township at the
date of his death. He was the father of five children, three of whom are
still living. He was a Lutheran, his wife a ^lethodist. Tn politics he was a
Republican and held various township offices. He always took an acti\e inter-
est in local affairs and whatever was good for the community.

William C. Kuehn attended the common school and has followed farming
since boyhood. He is a general farmer, and his place is in a very high state
of cultivation, well improved, and its fertility kept up by raising stock. He
entered into the marriage relation with Emma Osterberg, in 1895. Their
union has been blessed by the birth of four children, ^Myrtle, Stella, Ira and
Lester, all living, healthy and active in mind and body.

Tn politics Mr. Kuehn is a Republican, and in his fraternal relation, a
member of the Knights of Pythias, of the Odd Fellows and of the Modern
W^oodmen, and in his life puts into practice their principles. He is a citizen
of stanch and sturdy character and a farmer of ability and skill. He has illu-
strated the truth of the fact that to win success in farming, as in any other
business, requires careful management. Nowhere else is there a better or
more paying field for the application of systematic business methods, than in
the management and conducting of a farm ; the farmer who raises the largest
crops is not always the most successful, nor does he alwavs make the most
money. A farmer must apply a great deal of study into the conditions of
profits, just as a modern business man does, in order to make his land more
profitable and bring the greatest return for the labor expended. It requires
that he eradicate many small wastes, and he has got to reduce the expenses of
cultivation and maintenance to a minimum. This can only be done bv close
attention and application, and of which the farm of Mr. Kuehn's is evidence
of having received.

MICHAEL J. SPAIN.

Among the prominent farmers and early settlers of Clinton county,
Iowa, mention must not be omitted of Michael J. Spain, a man of such

990 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

correct habits and methods that he would doubtless have succeeded in what-
ever locality he desired to cast his lot, coming as he did from a sturdy-
northern family who were not accustomed to be discouraged at difficulties
or obstacles. He was born in Lower Canada, September 29, 1846, but
he has spent the major part of his life in Iowa, having been brought here
when five years of age. Here he grew to maturity and was educated in
the common schools, having been reared on his fathers farm, which he
helped to clear and develop, attending the pioneer schools, which were taught
three months each winter. He is the son of Cornelius and Margaret
(Kenedy) Spain, both natives of county Tipperary, Ireland, where they
grew to maturity and were married and where they began life on a farm.
They left the Emerald Isle for America in 181 5, landing in New York
City, soon afterward going to Troy, that state, where they remained one
year, then went to South Bend, Indiana, where they remained one year,
then to Canada. There Mr. Spain bought land which he improved and
continued to reside there over twenty years, having a good farm and a
comfortable home. In 1851 he sold out and came to Chicago, Illinois,
later went to ]\Iilwaukee, Wisconsin. Not liking Wisconsin, after visiting
various parts of the same, he crossed the Father of Waters, reaching
Dubuque, Iowa, in June, 1851, but a few days later went to Minnesota,
where he sought a location, but not liking the country, he came to Clinton
county, Iowa, in the fall of 1851 and bought five hundred acres, erected a
log house and soon had some of his land in cultivation. In due course of
time he had a large and well improved farm, being very successful as a
general farmer and stock raiser, hauling his products many miles to market
and enduring many privations incidental to pioneer life. At that time
there was not a physician in the county, but the settlers understood the use
of herbs and "home remedies."

Politically the first vote of Cornelius Spain was cast for Mr. Buchanan
in 1856. He was at first inclined to support the Whig party, but in 1856
joined the Democrats, to whom he remained faithful. He was a well in-
formed man on current events, and while he used his influence for the
party he never aspired to public life, though he filled some of the township
offices. He was a worthy member of the Catholic church. He liked to
be neighborly, although when he first came his "neighbors" were about
twenty miles distant. He 'was always ready to help those in need in any
way. and he was, indeed, a strong, useful man in his day, and was highly
regarded by all who knew him. His death occurred on the old homestead

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 99 1

in Octol^er. 1867. at the advanced age of eighty-six years; his widow sur-
vived until 1884. dying when about the same age that her husband reached.
They were a grand old couple. Cornelius Spain, it appears, was the pioneer
of his neighborhood and was the first man to start the physical and moral
development of the new Eldorado and helped lay tlie foundation for good
government. Through his efforts the first missionary priest came to his
neighborhood. Father McKenna having held mass at his house in 18^2.
after which annual mass was served, and later regular mass in the log
school house. Thus, for many reasons, no man is more worthy of an
honored place in the county's history than Cornelius Spain.

He and his ^^■ife were the parents of thirteen children, namely: Michael,
number one. died in early life, as did also Thomas and Rhoda; Catherine.
Mrs. Conroy; Bridget died when young; Daniel, a farmer, died in 1875;
John, a farmer, died in 190=^; Cornelius, a farmer, died in 1S84; William,
a farmer, died in 1888; Michael, the subject, and Mary were twins, the
latter dying in 1848 when young; Margaret and Derias also died young.

Michael Spain, of this review, was reared on the home farm and as-
sisted with the work on the same when he became of proper age and
early in life engaged in farming. When thirty-two years of age he mar-
ried and settled at the old homestead, continuing to operate the place, carry-
ing out the plans which his father inaugurated ; he later bought the interest
of his brother and he has since added to his place until he now has a fine
farm of two hundred and forty acres, all under a high st^te of cultivation,
and he is carrying on general farming and stock raising in a manner that
is bringing definite success. He often has as many as one hundred head
of cattle in his pastures and feed lots, feeding and shipping about three
car loads of cattle each year, also feeds large numbers of hogs. He has
an excellent farm and a good group of buildings on the same. Although
primarily a Democrat, he is inclined to be independent when it comes to
voting. He was reared in the Catholic church and is still loyal to the
same.

^Ir. Spain was married on July i. 1879, to "Mary J. Britt, who was
born in Lyons, Iowa, on September 20. 1859. and she has proven to be
a most worthy helpmate She is the daughter of Thomas Britt, a native
of Ireland who emigrated to New York in 1852, and who came to Lyons,
Iowa, about 1855. He engaged in farming and contracting on railroad
construction work and became a useful and successful man. His death
occurred here in 1881. He was a member of the Catholic church and a

992 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Democrat. He filled a number of minor offices, including that of constable,
while living at Lyons. His family consisted of three children : George died
when young, as did also Martin; Mary J., wife of Mr. Spain of this review.

The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Michael J.
Spain : Cornelius is a farmer ; Thomas D. is an invalid ; Roger is a farmer ;
Margaret L., Mary G., and William P. are all at home; Catherine is teach-
ing school; Frank is a student at Dubuque. Iowa; Orretta is a student
at the parochial school at Petersville; Marcedes is also attending the same
school.

JOHN B. AHRENS.

The gentleman whose name heads this sketch is a member of an old and
respected family of Clinton county, the earlier members of which were among
the earliest settlers to come to the county from the fatherland of Germany,
which has furnished to the county so many of its best citizens. The Ahrens
were men and women of honor and character, who filled their various stations
in life by always doing their duty, and their lives were strong forces working
for good. Such has been the family reputation, and as yet it has not been
tarnished by the acts of any of its representatives, while the life of John B.
Ahrens promises to add new sheen to its luster.

John B. Ahrens was born in Center township, Clinton county, Iowa, the
son of John D. and Catherine (Naeve) Ahrens, on January 26, 1874. John
D. Ahrens Was born in the province of Oldenberg, Germany, on August 29,
1836. the son of John A. and Trinke (Dudden) Ahrens. John A. Ahrens
was a farmer in Germany and, when an old man, retired from active labor,
came to Clinton county, Iowa, and settled. He died on July 23, 1854, and
his wife died on March 19, i860.

John D. Ahrens came to Joliet, Illinois, from Germany, in 1852, and the
next year came to Clinton county, Iowa. In i860 he located on a farm in
Center township, finding its cultivation profitable and agreeable. He died on
March 7, 1905. In politics he was a Democrat, and in religion a stanch ad-
herent to the Lutheran faith of his fathers. He was much esteemed by his
neighbors and his judgment highly regarded. In i860 he was married to
Catherina Naeve, a daughter of John and Catherina (Peters) Naeve, born in
Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, who bore to him ten children, five of whom are
living. She died on July 13, 1904.

John B. Ahrens grew up on the farm until he was ten years old when his
parents retired and removed to Lyons in 1884 and where he attended the com-

JOHN B. AHRENS

' ili^ NE\V YORK

Pli^LIC LlBlIAliY

ASTOR, LT'NOX. .V."'

TILDEN fOUNDATinXS

R L

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 993

men schools. Early attracted to the law as a profession, he pursued its study
in the office of W. C. Grohe. In 1897 he graduated from the law department
of Drake University, and later the same year he was admitted to the Clinton
county bar. Since that time he has been engaged in practice, and though
meeting the usual discouragements which beset young lawyers, has obtained a
large amount of business, which is constantly increasing, as his abilities are
becoming more widely recognized. In 19 10 he was elected by the Republicans
to the office of city solicitor. Fraternally he is a member of the Knights of
Pythias and of the Woodmen of the World, and takes an active interest in
both.

On July 10, 1897, Mr. Ahrens was married to Madge Taylor, of Des
Moines, who was born in that city on June 14, 1875. She has borne to him
four children, Alice C. and John E., now in school, and Richard H. and ]\Iary
Jeanette. They are a very attractive and interesting family of young folks.

Mr. Ahrens is a man of pleasing address, a forceful speaker, and has
shown himself in the conduct of his trials and his practice to possess the
qualifications of a strong lawyer. Personally he has gained many friends,
all, of whom recognize his worth. He has been active in all recent enterprises
which were concerned with the advancement of Clinton and takes much inter-
est in all public questions.

CARL J. CHRISTIANSEN.

Among the most prominent farmers of \A'ashington township, which
is one of the most fertile and best farming districts in Clinton county,
none is better known, or has been more successful, than Mr. Christiansen,
who in his career has Init repeated the incidents of his father's life, a man
whose strength of character, high honor and good judgment won for him
the respect of all who knew him.

Carl J. Christiansen was born on April 3, 1858, in Clinton county, Iowa,
the son of Carston and Sicka fPeyson) Christiansen, who were natives
of Schleswisr, Germanv, and came to this countrv in 18^1. Thev landed
at Xew Orleans, and came up the river by steamboat to Davenport, Iowa,
where they remained for a short time, then came to Clinton county. The
family were on the ocean sixteen weeks and of the five children, two died
on the voyage and were buried at sea. Mr. Christiansen purchased an un-
improved farm in section 10, Center township, improved it with buildings,
and lived on it for several years, after wdiich he sold it to Peter Hansen,

(63)

994 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA,

and purchased an improved farm in section 30 of the same township.
Carston Christiansen spent his Hfe in general farming, and by his excellent
business ability accumulated much property. In 1896 he retired from the
farm and moved to Clinton, where he died on April 14. 1899, at the age
of seventy-eight. His wife died on June 9, 1900, and both are l)uried at
Elvira cemetery. They were members of the Lutheran church and took
an active part in the work of the church. Of their nine children, but two,
Carl and his brother, Martin, are living. The deceased are Anna (Mrs.
Schroeder). Hans P., Carston N., Hannah, Lena and the two buried at
sea.

Carl J. Christiansen remained at home until he was eighteen, receiv-
ing a common school education. For the greater part of the next six
years he traveled about a good deal over the country, finding employment
on farms mostly. At the age of twenty-four, on March 7, 1882, he was
married to Lucy Mannsen, the daughter of John and Mergrata Mannsen,
who came from their native Germany to the United States in 1872, and
reared a family of five children. Mr. and Mrs. Christiansen began their
married life in this county, and in 1883 they moved to the farm where they
now live, consisting of two hundred and eighty acres which he purchased
from his father. To this he has added until now he is the owner of six
hundred acres in Clinton county. The present year Mr. Christiansen pur-
chased two hundred and sixty acres of fertile prairie land in Arkansas,
and has begun the cultivation of rice. This investment promises to be
very profitable. In 1901 he erected his present home, a handsome country
residence of eleven rooms, modern in every -way, at a cost of four thous-
and dollars; in 1905 a large barn was erected at a cost of one thousand
five hundred dollars, in addition to which he has other barns for feeding
purposes. In fact, his location and his buildings are second to none in
the township.

Mr. Christiansen has made a success of farming and stock raising
and is a money maker. Enterprising and public spirited, he is ever ready
to work for the common good. In politics he is a Democrat and has
served as trustee of his township. He and his wife are members of the
Lutheran church. Not only has Mr. Christiansen been successful in a
material way, but he has obtained the friendship and the respect of his
neighbors and has found much pleasure in the society of his family.

Mr. and Mrs. Christiansen are the parents of ten interesting children,
all living, and most of them at home, and in school. Their names are :

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 995

Carston N., bom on December 4, 1882; Anna M.. born on May 23, 1884;
John M.. born on March 13, 1886; George W.. April 27, 1888; Walter C,
September 6. 1890; Lilhan S.. November 6, 1893; Carl H.. February 10,
1895; Ernest J.. April 22, 1897; Elma M., June 22. 1899; and Jeanette
A., June 19, 1904.

TRUELOVE M. CORSON.

A well known and highly respected citizen of Clinton, Iowa, is Truelove
M. Corson, a successful and popular contractor, who has by hard work along
legitimate and well selected lines, advanced from a modest beginning to a
position of influence in the business life of Clinton county, and is therefore
deserving of a great deal of credit on the part of his fellow men, which they
freely accord, for there has been nothing in his conduct to detract from the
good name this family has always borne.

Mr. Corson was born in Jasper county, Iowa, August 5, 1859, and he
is the son of Benjamin T. and Mary E. (Sparks) Corson, the former born
in Clark county, Ohio, July 31, 1832, and the latter was born in Iowa, Decem-
ber iS, 1842; they were married on July 15, 1858. The paternal grand-
father of Mr. Corson was Eli E. Corson, who was born in Ohio ; he was a
farmer l>y occupation. Benjamin H. Corson came with his parents to Jas-
per county, Iowa, in an early day and he entered government land there.
Later he moved to Missouri and farmed there several years, and finallv, in
1870, he moved to Crawford county, Iowa, where he purchased a good farm,
which he still owns. He was always a hard working man and managed well,
so that he has laid by a competency for his declining years and is now living
retired at the town of Botana, Shelby county, this state. He is a man of
fine personal characteristics, and he and his family are all members of the
United Brethren church. The maternal grandparents were Truelove and
Sarah Sparks, who were among the very earliest settlers in Iowa, having
•originally come from Kentucky, descendants of the noted frontiersman,
Daniel Boone. To Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin H. Corson the following children
were born. Truelove M. being the oldest: Eli E., Jerry J., Ulysses S. Grant,
Charles P. and Alberta A. (named in order of birth).

Truelove M. Corson was educated in the common schools of Iowa and
Missouri, his parents moving to the latter state when he was nine years old.
He grew to maturity on a farm and worked in the fields when a boy. After

996 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

remaining in that state six years, he returned to Crawford county, Iowa.
He began Hfe for himself as a farmer, buying, in 1880, eighty acres of land
in Shelby county, Iowa, and this he still owns. When a young man he also
learned the carpenter's trade and while managing his farm he did a great deal
of building; in fact, he did more contracting than any other man in the town
of Botana, Iowa, for several years. In 1901 he moved to Clinton. Iowa, and
worked for several large contractors at first, among them being John Lake.
In 1907 he started in for himself as a contractor and has been doing a large
and satisfactory business. He purchased a house at No. 605 Fourth avenue
and has remodeled it into a comfortable and modern, well equipped and at-
tractive dwelling. He is thoroughly familiar with every detail of the builder's
art and deserves to rank high as an architect.

Mr. Corson married, on May 13, 1880, Cornelia B. Langham, who was
born May 18, 1858, in Clinton county, the daughter of George and Mary
Langham, natives of England. To Mr. and Mrs. Corson two children have
been born, Herbert Henry, born March 3, 1887, and George E., born June
9, 1891.

Air. Corson is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America, also be-
longs to the auxiliary, the Royal Neighbors.

HANS FREDERICK CHRISTIAN BEHR.

There are a conspicuously large number of German-born citizens or
citizens of German descent in Clinton, and there are no more worthy or public
spirited inhabitants of the city than are they. Mr. Behr was born in Ger-
many, came as a young man to this country, and here found the opportunities
for which he was seeking, and has lived a successful life. His many amiable
and afifable qualities have made for him many friends among those who know
him, all of w^hom consider him as one of the best of companions.

Hans Frederick Christian Behr was born in Schleswig, Germany, on
September 23, 1864, the son of Christian and Margaret Behr. Christian
Behr was also a native of Schleswig, and came to Clinton, Iowa, in 1882,
where he died in 1888, after making himself a welcome inhabitant of this
his adopted country. His wife had died in Germany.

Hans F. C. Behr received his education from the German schools, and
was a young man of nineteen when he came to Clinton, Iowa, in 1883. Upon
reaching the city he engaged in the furniture business, and continued in it

^^1

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HANS F. C. BEHR

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CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 997

for many years. In 1907 he and F. V. Hall formed a partnership in the
undertaking business, which continued for only a year, when Mr. Hall sold his
interest to H. E. Bragonier. The firm is still known as the F. V. Hall Com-
pany and has been a prosperous one. Mv. Behr is very competent in the lines
of his profession, having graduated with Hohenschuh and Carpener of Des
Moines, Iowa. The company possesses the best of trade fixtures and appli-
ances, and is fully equipped for his business.

Mr. Behr is unmarried. He is a member of the Independent Order of
Odd Fellows and has filled many important ofifices in that body. In religion
he has adhered to the Lutheran faith of his parents. In politics he is inde-
pendent, voting for the men whom he thinks are best fitted for the ofifices for
which they are striving, regardless of their political affiliation. He is a gen-
tleman of pleasant manner, and very agreeable to meet and converse with,
while he is also a man of strong judgment in business matters. Such citizens
as Mr. Behr are the best example of the value of immigration to this country.

JOHN W. DUNLAP.

Among those men of sterling attributes of character wlio have impressed
their personality upon the community of their residence and have borne their
full share in the upbuilding and develojDment of Clinton county, mention must
not be omitted of John \\\ Dunlap, well known agriculturist and stock man of
Brookfield towu'-rhip. where he has long maintain.ed his home and where he
has exerted a strong influence for good to the entire community. He is the
scion of a fine old Virginia family, and many of the qualities of the genteel
Southern gentleman are paramount in his nature, which renders him popular
with all classes of people.

John ^^^ Dunlap was l:orn in Rockingham count}'. Virginia, on Fel:ni-
ary Ji, 1856, and he is the son of Col. J. A\\ Dunlap, a highly honored and
influential citizen of the Old Dominion, who was Ijorn in the same county on
June I, 1814, and who married Agnes Phillips, also born in Rockingham
county, that state, her birth occurring on October 30, 1816. These parents
were married on February 23, 1832. The paternal grandfather, William
DunFp, was a tvpe of the sterling Scotchman, having been born in the lands
of "blue bell and heather," from which he emigrated to the United States
in an early day and located in Virginia, where he maintained a plantation.
His only child was the father of the subject, and he became a prosperous and

99^ CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

successful farmer in \^irginia. He was a man of patriotic impulses and
military in spirit and prior to the breaking out of the war between the states
lie had begun drilling a regiment. However, he moved west before the war,
but during the conflict commanded a regiment with much ability and courage.
Politically, he was a Democrat and held various local offices. It was on
January 3. 1859, that he reached Brookfield township, Clinton county. Here
he rented land, living with his brother-in-law, J. E. Philipps, for four years,
then bought eighty acres which he farmed until his death, November 5,
1869. He was a man of many splendid and commendable qualities of head
and heart and was held in the highest esteem by all who knew him. His
wife survived him many years, dying on January 28, 1896. They were mem-
bers of the Presbyterian church, and their family consisted of the following
children, named in order of birth: William P., of Maquoketa, Iowa; Mrs.
Mary E. Anderson; Mrs. Eusabia Twist, deceased; James H., deceased; A.
N., of Maquoketa; John \V., of this review; Robert E., deceased.

John W. Dunlap, of this review, was only three years of age when he
accompanied his parents from Virginia to Iowa, the trip requiring fifty-one
days, in a wagon and buggy, overland. Although too young to realize what
it all meant, it was an interesting experience, crossing the narrow defiles of
the Blueridge mountains, traveling rough roads through almost interminable
forests and fording unbridged streams and camping along the route in typical
pioneer fashion.

John W. Dunlap grew to maturity in Clinton county and attended the
common schools. He assisted with the work on the home fann in Brook-
field township, which he eventually purchased and to which he has since
added eighty acres, making a good farm of one hundred and sixty acres
which he has kept well improved and well tilled. He has erected comfortable
and substantial buildings. He is interested in breeding thoroughbred cattle
and has been in the business twenty-seven years. He raises polled Durham
cattle, which always find a very ready market owing to their superior quality.
He is a general farmer.

Mr. Dunlap is an ardent Democrat and has long been active in fostering
the principles of his party. He is regarded as a leader in local matters and
his candidacy for representative from this district in 19 10 was looked upon
with much favor by all classes from the first, he being elected in November
following.

Mr. Dunlap is a member of the Methodist church at Elwood and fra-
ternallv he belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 999

On November 20, 1886. occurred the marriage of Mr. Dnnlap with
Hattie Kennedy, who was born in Dubuque county, Iowa, April 4, i860, the
daughter of Robert and Catherine Kennedy, a most excellent family. Mr.
Kennedy came here from Pennsylvania in the earlv forties, among the pio-
neers. He is of Scotch descent.

Mr. and Mrs. Dunlap have no children of their own, but they have
taken Hugh E. Clark, an orphan boy, and reared him ; he was born in London.
He has had the very best of care and instruction in the Dunlap home.

Mr. Dunlap is a man wdiom to know is to admire and respect. He is
temperate in every sense of the word, a stanch friend, honorable in all the
relations of life and his word is the same as a bond.

JAMES OWEN BABCOCK.

The value of lives may be measured by many standards. There is nowa-
days far too great a tendency to measure the worth of a man by the amount
of money which he has accumulated, and to lose sight of things which not
onlv make a life more advantageous to the community, but make it more
truly profitable to the one who lives it. While Mr. Babcock lives comfort-
ablv ?n(l need not complain that he has been neglected in the things of this
world, his life measures high in character, while many a man who has
infinitely more of wealth falls far below him in this respect.

James Owen Babcock was born in Clark county, Ohio, on October 30,
1838, the son of John and Elizabeth (Hardman) Babcock, who, with other
Seventh-Day Baptists, came to Clinton county in 1854 and located in Bloom-
field township. John Babcock owned one hundred and sixty acres of land in
Bloomfield township and an equal amount in Welton township. He im-
proved the Bloomfield township farm and lived on it until his death. Of his
family of nine children, four are living. In politics he was a Republican.
The Babcocks have been prominently identified with the religious life of the
Seventh-Day Baptist community at North Welton, a little band of Christians
of a somewhat peculiar belief, who observe the seventh day as the sabbath and
who in their daily life so exemplify their doctrines that they are among the
mo.st peaceful and useful citizens of the community, commanding the respect
of their neighbors of whatever creed.

James O. Babcock received his education in the district schools. He be-
gan early to farm in Welton township, and carried on general farming on a

lOOO CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

one hundred and twenty acre farm there until 1885, when he removed to
North \\'elton. the center of the Seventh-Day Baptist community. In poH-
tics he, hke his father, was formerly a Republican, but is now a Prohibitionist.
Though never an aspirant for office, he at one time served his township as
trustee. He is one of the most faithful of the members of the Seventh-Dav
Baptist church, in which he is a deacon, and his wife and familv are members
of the same church.

James O. Babcock was married in 11860 to Almarine Van Horn, who has
borne to him two children, Otis W. and Bertha P. Modest and unassuming,
of unspotted character, Mr. Babcock possesses the respect of all who know
him.

DAVID S. FAIRCHILD, M. D.

In the present sketch is mentioned one who has had an exceedingly varied
and useful professional career and one which redounds to his own credit and
to the advancement of mankind. In his work he has been ever active, and
in the position of exceptional opportunity which he held so long as an in-
structor in the medical profession, he has merited much praise for the efficient
and thorough instruction which he has given and for the high professional
ideals which he has set before his students.

David S. Fairchild was born in Fairfield, Vermont, on i6th of Septem-
ber, 1847, the son of Eli and Grace Fairchild. Eli Fairchild was the son of
David, the son of John, the son of Abraham Fairchild. who came to Redding,
Connecticut, from Norwalk. Connecticut, in 1746. John was a soldier in the
Revolution and family tradition says that five of his brothers were in that
same great struggle. Such a record is possessed by few families.

Da\"i(l was educated in the academies of Franklin and Barre, Vermont,
studied medicine with Dr. J. O. Cromton. of Fairfield, attended medical lec-
tures at the University of Michigan from 1866 to 1868, and graduated at
Albany, New York, in December, 1868. He then located in High Forest,
Minnesota, where he stayed three years. In 1872 he located in Ames, Iowa,
and there in 1877 was appointed physician to Iowa Agricultural College. In
1879 he was elected professor of comparative anatomy and physiology, which
position he held until 1893, when he resigned to become state surgeon for the
Northwestern railway. In 1897 he was appointed special examining surg-eon
for the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railway. Back in 1882 he had been
elected to the chair of histology and pathology in the Iowa College of Physi-

DAVID S. FAIRCHILD, M. D.

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CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. lOOI

cians and Surgeons at Des Moines. In 1886 he was given the chair of theory
and practice, and later, in 1903, was elected dean. For two years previous
to the incorporation of the institution as a part of Drake University, he was
its president. He has given much attention to nervous and hereditary dis-
eases. In 1874 he assisted in organizing the Central District Medical Society,
and in 1886 was elected president. In 1895 he was elected president of the
Iowa State Medical Society, and was also in 1898 president of the Western
Surgical and Gynecological Association. He assisted in organizing the Iowa
Academy of Sciences, and was chairman of the committee appointed by the
State Medical Society to prepare a history of medicine in Iowa. In 1893 he
came to Clinton, where he has since had an extensive practice.

Doctor Fairchild was married on May i, 1870, to Wilhelmina C, daugh-
ter of \Y. R. Tattersall. He is the father of one son, D. S. Fairchild. Jr.,
who practices medicine with him. Doctor Fairchild is an exceedingly busy
man. and one who fully appreciates the responsibilities as well as the oppor-
tunities of his profession. Personally he is a man of very high character.

JOHN WIRTH.

Among the old and substantial residents of Brookfield township, Clinton
county, Iowa, is John Wirth, a native of Germany, who was born on February
29, 1836. His parents, Martin and Therese (Bohner) Wirth, spent their
lives in the fatherland, and of their nine children only two are living, one in
the old country and one, the subject of this sketch, in the United States. John
Wirth was reared on a farm, but at the age of fifteen years began learning
the blacksmith trade, at which his son became a very proficient worker and
which he followed at difi^erent places in his native country for a number of
years. In 1855 he came to the United States and during the ensuing three
years worked at his trade in Chicago, removing at the expiration of that time
to Minnesota, where he conducted a shop for one year. He then came to
Clinton county, Iowa, in June, and after spending three years at St. Louis,
went to Grand Mound, where he devoted about one year to farm labor, after
which he started a shop at DeWitt, where he followed his chosen calling until
1865. In the meantime, 1863, he bought a farm of eighty acres and at the
expiration of the period indicated moved to the same and from 1865 until
i88t devoted his attention to agricultural pursuits in this locality. In the
latter year he purchased two hundred and twenty acres of land in Brookfield

I002 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

township, to which he moved about the same time and which he improved
with good buildings and on a part of which he still resides.

From 1 88 1 until practically retiring from active life a few years ago,
-Mr. Wirth was one of the leading farmers and stock raisers of Brookfield
township, also among the largest land owners, his real estate in Clinton and
Jackson counties at one time amounting to over two thousand acres. After
accumulating a handsome competency by his farm interests and investments,
he divided his land among his children, retaining thirty acres for himself on
which he is now living in comfortable and honorable retirement. Mr. Wirth
has been very fortunate financially, and is today one of the well-to-do men
and substantial citizens of the township in which he has long resided. In
politics he is a prominent and influential Democrat, and as such has been
elected from time to time to various local offices, having served his township
as trustee, school director and in other capacities. Mr. Wirth was married
April 27, 1863, to Mary Bolte, a native of Germany, who has borne him eight
children, namely: Matilda, Minnie, Felix E. (died on April 24, 191 1, at the
age of forty-two years), Alexander, Frank, Arthur, Edith and Josephine,
the majority of whom are married, well settled in life and highly esteemed in
their respective places of residence. Mr. Wirth is widely known throughout
Clinton county and to a marked degree commands the respect and confidence
of his neighbors and fellow citizens. He is a self made man in the most
liberal meaning of the term, as he came to the county with little means, and
the ample fortune which in due time he accumulated is the result of his own
labors and judicious management. He is a splendid example of the intelli-
gent and progressive German-American citizenship to which the great West
is so largely indebted for its material growth and prosperity and his life may
be studied with profit by the young man whose career is yet to be achieved.

Alexander J. Wirth, second son of John and Mary Wirth, was born in
Clinton county, Iowa, on the 3d day of March, 1871. He was reared to
habits of industry under the excellent training of his father, received a fair
education in the public schools of his township, and grew up familiar with the
active duties of farm life. At the proper age he took his place in the fields
during his minority, bore his proportionate share in the cultivation of the
family homestead, proving industrious and helpful, and while still a mere
youth he was able to do a man's part at almost any kind of manual labor.
Having chosen agriculture as his life work, he bent all his energies toward
becoming proficient in the same, and on leaving home bought two hundred
acres of land a short distance west of Elwood, which he has greatly improved

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. IOO3

and which, under his effective industry, is now one of the finest farms and
among the most beautiful and desirable rural homes in the township of Brook-
field. Mr. Wirth devotes his attention to general farming and stock raising
and his career as an agriculturist presents a series of continued successes such
as few attain. Industrious, energetic and possessing sound practical intelli-
gence and mature judgment, he takes broad views of his calling and conducts
his farm along modern lines with the result that he never fails to realize
bountiful returns from his labors. He is a public spirited man, keenly alive
to the best interests of his township and county, and ready at all times to lend
his influence to all worthy measures for the general welfare. He is pro-
nounced in his allegiance to the Democratic party, keeps well informed on the
leading questions of the day and enters heartily into what makes for the best
interests of his fellow men. Fraternally, he is an Odd Fellow^ belonging
to the lodge at Lost Nation, the canton and encampment at Maquoketa and
the Rebekah degree at Elwood, being an active and influential worker in the
several branches of these orders.

Mr. Wirth, in the month of November, 1894, was united in marriage
with Clara Herkelman, whose father, Carl Herkelman, is noticed elsewhere
in this chapter, the union resulting in the birth of four children, Raymond,
Lester, Lela and Verda. In every relation of life Mr. Wirth is recognized
as possessing a strong sense of tmth and justice and he discharges the duties
of citizenship with the energy and fidelity characteristic of the broad-minded
American who loses sight of self in his desire to uphold the honor of his state
and nation. Of inflexible integrity and irreproachable character and actuated
by a sincere desire to make the world better, he stands today among the most
estimable and popular citizens of the tow-nship in which he resides.

FRED MUELLER.

Mention of the leading citizens of Calamus and Olive township brings
up among the first names that of the man whose name appears above, one of
the countv's most progressive citizens, a farmer of ability and success, and a
careful and sagacious business man. The efforts of his life have been pros-
pered and have been well rewarded. But as nothing can be obtained without
expenditure, let us not think that Mr. Mueller reached his present position by
accident, but that he obtained it as the result of his carefully guided labors,
and in this w^ay his career is an inspiration.

I004 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Fred Mueller was born in Germany, September 22, 1852, the son of
Frederick and Dora (Cook) Mueller. His parents were native Germans,
and came to Hampton, Illinois, in 1854, and in 1865 removed to Clinton
county. Here Mr. Mueller bought a farm of two hundred acres, but sold this
and moved to Martin county, Minnesota, and there bought three hundred and
twenty acres, to which he added two hundred and forty more, owning at
death five hundred and sixty acres. He was a hard working man in early life,
had much influence in his neighborhood, and was a man of strong Christian
character. He was in politics a Democrat. He and his wife were members
of the Lutheran church, and he was one of the founders of the Buena Vista
church. They were the parents of three children, all now living. His wife
died in Illinois in 1862, and he married later Minnie Schmaechel, who bore
him nine children. fi\-e of whom are living.

Fred Mueller was reared on the farm, and attended the public schools in
Illinois and also in Clinton county. He has always liked the life on the farm,
early took up farming for himself, and now owns three hundred and sixty
acres just north of Calamus. In 1906 he bought the elevator at Calamus, and
operates it in connection with his son, John F., who is a partner in the enter-
prise under the name of Mueller & Son. They do an extensive and paying
business. On the farm he carries on general farming and stock raising. In
politics he is a Democrat, and has been township trustee for seven years in
succession, and school director for twelve years. He and his family are
Lutherans.

Mr. Mueller was married on November 23, 1876, to Minnie Wendell,
who was born in Rock Island county, Illinois, the daughter of Heniy Wendell,
an early settler of Clinton county, mentioned in this work. To this union
have been born eleven children: John. Fred (deceased). Henry, \A'illie,
Amanda. Reinholdt, Alfred, Dora, Eddie, Ellen (deceased) and Walter.

Mr. Mueller is a careful and successful farmer, a business man of keen-
ness and sagacity, and in his official position well merited the trust reposed
in him by the people. He is a friend of education, and takes great pleasure in
his home and family.

GEORGE W. SACKRIDER.

This old and highly esteemed citizen, who for many years has been
identified with the varied interests of Clinton county, and who during the try-
ing period of rebellion upheld the honor of the National Union on the bloody

THE NEW YORK
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TIT,! 'EN 1(/..NDA'-'!0NS
R L

GEORGE W. SACKRIDER

MRS. JENNIE SACKRIUER

THE NEW Y'ORK

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TTTJtEN iir^
R

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. IOO5

field of conflict, is a native of Delaware county, Ohio, and one of six children,
whose parents, Isaac and Nancy (Hults) Sackrider, were born in the state of
New York. They were married about 1832, and shortly thereafter moved to
Delaware county, Ohio, where the wife died late in the forties or early in the
fifties. In about 185 1 Mr. Sackrider brought his family to Clinton county,
Iowa, and settled on a farm in Brookfield township. His first purchase con-
sisted of one hundred and sixty acres, v^diich he afterwards increased to two
hundred, the greater part of which he cleared and improved and on which he
lived a quiet contented life until called to his final reward, in the year 1878.
Of his five sons and one daughter, three are living, the subject of this sketch
being the youngest of the family.

George W. Sackrider was born August 14. 1839, ^^^ spent the first ten
years of his life in his native county. In 185 1 he accompanied his father to
Clinton county, Iowa, and grew to manhood on the home farm in Brookfield
township, attending at intervals, the meanwhile, the rural school of the neigh-
borhood. He remained at home assisting with the work of the farm until
1862, when he exchanged the implements of husbandry for the death dealing
instruments of warfare, joining, in July of that year. Company I, Twenty-
fourth Iowa Infantry, with which he se.rved until the close of the Rebellion
in 1865. Mr. Sackrider took part in some of the most notable campaigns of
the w^ar, first in Mississippi, where he participated in the battle of Champion
Hill, the various engagements around Pleasant Hill, and from May 22, 1863,
until the fourth day of the following July, was engaged in the siege of Vicks-
burg. He shared with his comrades many of the vicissitudes of warfare and
was in a great deal of hard fighting, but twelve of his company escaping death
and injury in the bloody battle of Champion Hill. He also experienced much
active service in Virginia under General Sheridan, having been in the battle
of Cedar creek and many other engagements, and was with that distinguished
leader when he turned defeat into victory after the celebrated ride of twenty
miles which has helped to make his name famous. At the close of the war, he
was discharged with a record for bravery and gallantry of which any soldier
might well feel proud, and, returning to Clinton county, resumed the pursuit
of agriculture on sixty acres of land in Brookfield township, given him by his
father.

From this modest beginning, Mr. Sackrider's progress as a farmer has
been continuous, and he now owns a fine estate of three hundred and twenty
acres, on which are some of the best improvements in the community, includ-
ing an imposing modern dwelling, which in point of architectural beauty and

I006 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

all that constitutes a comfortable rural home is perhaps the finest edifice of the
kind in Brookfield township and excelled by few, if any, in the county. The
premises have been beautified by quite a number of shade trees, which Mr.
Sackrider has set out from time to time; these, with the beautiful lawn, inter-
spersed with flowers and ornamental shrubbery, add to the attractiveness of
a home in which little is lacking to render it a model of its kind.

Mr. Sackrider is easily one of the leading farmers and stock raisers of
his township and stands in the first rank among the representative citizens.
Enterprising and progressive, he manifests commendable zeal in the develop-
ment and growth of the country, wields a strong influence for the Democratic
party, and his counsel and judgment have had no little weight in shaping the
policies of the same in his own and other counties in the eastern part of the
state. He has been secretary' of the school board for a number of years: has
also served as trustee of his township, and his interest in public matters has
given him considerable prestige as a leader of thought and, in no small degree,
a moulder of opinion among his fellow citizens. In addition to his farming
and live stock interests, he is identified with various public utilities, including
the Home Telephone Company, the Havery Coal Company of Montana, the
Delmar Bank, and the Peoples Savings Bank of Delmar, being a large stock-
holder in these financial institutions, also a member of their boards of directors.
For some years he has been quite active in secret fraternal work, especially in
Odd Fellowship and the Pythian order, in both of which organizations he has
been honored with important official trusts.

]\lr Sackrider was happily married on September 19, 1866, to Jennie
Rarick, of Steuben county, New York, and a daughter of \\'illiam and Martha
(Compton) Rarick, who came to this state about the year 1858. Mr. Rarick
was by occupation a carpenter and builder, but after moving west he turned
his attention to agriculture. Mrs. Sackrider was reared and educated in her
nati\-e state, and is a lady of fine mind, strong individuality, and quite popular
in the social circles of the community. She has borne her husband two chil-
dren, the older being a son who answers to the name of Clarence. He married
Helen Leach, of Maquoketa, and is the father of two offspring, Ruth and
Wilfred. Carrie was the second in order of birth, and is the wife of Doctor
Wilson, a popular dentist of Delmar, and has two daughters, Vera and Gladys.
Mrs. Sackrider is interested with her husband in secret and benevolent work,
being a member of the Rebekah lodge. Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the
Pythian Sisters, the Eastern Stars, and is also a chevalier, the highest order a
ladv can attain.

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. IOC/

ISAAC NEWTON LOOFBORO.

Among the well remembered and highly revered citizens of Clinton
county who have now taken up their abode in "the low, green tent whose cur-
tain never outward swings," none is deserving of higher encomium than the
late Isaac Newton Loofboro, for his life was exemplary in every respect and
his example was that of a high-minded and public-spirited man of affairs
whose career is worthy of imitation by the youth hesitating at the parting of
the ways. .^|

Mr. Loofboro was born in Ohio, on July 12, 1832, the son of Davis and
Mary (Maxon) Loofboro, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of
Warren county, Ohio. They were early settlers of Ohio, and after remaining
in the Buckeye state for some time moved to Illinois, thence to Clinton county,
Iowa, in the early fifties and here they spent the remainder of their days,
the father being deceased.

Isaac N. Loofboro was educated in the schools of Ohio and Farmington,
Illinois. After coming to Clinton county, Iowa, he engaged in farming, first
owning eighty acres of land, which he sold and bought one hundred and sixty
acres, now owned by the family. He made quite a success as a general
farmer and was living retired at the time of his death, on September 14, 1907.
His widow is now living at North Welton. In politics he was a Republican,
but a Prohibitionist at the time of his death.

Mr. Loofboro was one of the gallant defenders of the Union during the
dark days of the Rebellion, having enlisted in Company A, Eighth Iowa
Volunteer Infantry, in which he served very faithfully for three years, work-
ing in the hospitals most of the time, but rendering very efficient service
wherever he was placed. He and his family were members of the Seventh-
Day Baptists, and he was veiy faithful in his support of the same.

Mr. Loofboro was married in Clinton county to Anna Davis, who was
born in Warren county, Ohio, August 27, 1838, the daughter of William and
Mary (Sterns) Davis. The father came to Clinton county, Iowa, in 1861.
His wife died in Indiana and his death occurred in Kansas. They were peo-
ple of sterling worth. To Mr. and Mrs. Loofboro five children were born,
namely: Horace Roscoe, born in Clinton county, July 30, 1865, he was edu-
cated in the public schools and at Milton College, Milton, Wisconsin. He
turned his attention to farming and he and his brother, Lewis Lester, manage
the old homestead, carrying on general farming and stock raising in a very
successful manner. Horace R. was married on June 5, 1901, to Hattie

I008 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

Mudge, a native of Clinton county, and the daughter of Myron C. Mudge,
mentioned in full in another part of this work. To this union two sons have
been born, Paul and Elston. Lewis Lester Loofboro was born on May 24,
1872. and he was educated in the public schools and at Milton College. He,
too, has devoted his life to agricultural pursuits, as above mentioned. Both
he and his brother are Prohibitionists and members of the Seventh-Day Bap-
tist church. The following three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Isaac N.
Loofboro are deceased: Viola Alecia, Yulee and Luella. The Loofboro fam-
ilv has always been regarded as among the best people in this section of the
countA , being honorable in all the relations of life and industrious.

JAMES EZRA DOLAN.

A man of distinct and forceful individuality, of undaunted enterprise,
and in manner genial, courteous and easily approached, is James Ezra Dolan,
the faithful and capable agent of the Chicago Burlington & Quincy Railroad
Company at Clinton, Iowa. He deserves a great deal of success for what he
has accomplished in various phases of railroad life, for it has been done solely
by his own unaided efforts, often in the face of obstacles.

Mr. Dolan was born in Lyons, August 2'8, 1865, and he has always lived
in this part of the great commonwealth of Iowa, growing to maturity in Clin-
ton county. He is the son of John B. and Phoebe F. (Crosby) Dolan, the
father a native of Philadelphia and the mother of Plainfield, New Hampshire.
Each came to Clinton county, Iowa, single, having accompanied their parents
in the fifties, and located at Lyons, where they were married. The maternal
grandfather, John Crosby, came to Clinton county in 1850. The father is of
Irish descent. He was one of the pioneer hardware men of the county and
for many vears enjoyed an excellent trade here. He was in no sense of the
word a public man, although interested in the general development of the
county; he preferred to spend his time on his business and with his family,
of which there were three sons and one daughter, all ^o^v deceased with the
exception of James Ezra of this review. The father died in 1875 ; his widow
survived until 1908, reaching an advanced age.

One brother of John B. Dolan is living, Thomas Dolan, who is president
of the United Gas Improvement Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a
twenty-five-million-dollar corporation.

James Ezra Dolan was educated in the public schools of Clinton, also
attended business college and thus became well equipped for his life work.

JAMES E. DOLAN

THE NEW YORK
PUBLDD LIBilARY

ASTOR, LENOX, A^T)

TILDEN FOfUNDATIONS

R L

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. IOO9

He entered the employ of the Chicag-o. Mihvaukee & St. Paul Railroad Com-
pany under J. S. Stratton, \vho was local agent at that time. He remained in
this position one year, then went to the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy road
as night operator at Denrock Junction, Illinois. Later he spent three years
in the train dispatcher's office, then spent one year in the Clinton office, and
on October 27, 1902, he was appointed agent, having been here since 1895, a
position he still holds, having charge of both the freight and passenger work,
his office being at No. 221 Main street, Lyons. He has proven to be a very-
faithful employe and is giving the company entire satisfaction in this capacity.
Mr. Dolan is also interested in the Tri-City Telephone Company.

Politically, Mr. Dolan is a Republican and in religious matters an
Episcopalian. He belongs to the Demolay Consistory of Masons. He has
been secretary of the Athenaeum Club for the past fifteen years. This is the
societv club of the north end of Clinton. He has never married.

CARL B. BERST.

Energy, sound judgment and persistency of effort, properly applied,
will always win the goal sought in the sphere of human endeavor, no matter
what the environment may be or what obstacles are met with, for they
wlio are endowed witli such characteristics make of their adversities step-
ping-stones to higher things. These reflections are suggested by a study
of the career of Carl B. Berst, the popular and efficient cashier of the
Farmers and Merchants Bank of Welton, Clinton county, who has forged
his way to the front ranks and stands today among the representative young
men of his locality.

]\Ir. Berst was born in the state of Ohio, November 26, 1876. and he
was educated in Germany and in a business college at Springfield, Missouri.
He applied himself very assiduously to his text-books, and being a keen
observer, has become highly educated.

Starting in business early in life, he has been very successful in all
lines which have claimed his attention. For several years he made a success
of the creamerv business in Illinois. In 1891 he came to Clinton county.
Iowa, and located in Welton township where he continued in the creamery
business for a period of seven years. L'nderstanding the minute workings
of this line of endeavor he made a great success of the same here and be-

(64)

lOIO CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

came well known. He is now the owner of one-half of the local creamery,
which is one of the best equipped and most popular in the county.

When the Farmers and Merchants Bank was organized at Welton,
this county, on December 21, 1908, Mr. Berst became cashier, which respon-
sible and important position he has continued to hold to the present time,
discharging the duties of the same in a manner that reflects much credit
upon his ability and to the entire satisfaction of stockholders and patrons,
and the success and prestige of this sound and well known institution is
due in no small measure to his judicious management and wise counsel.
Politically, Mr. Berst is a Republican and is progressive in his ideas.

On October 18, 1904, Mr. Berst was married to Mabel Buck, a lady of re-
finement and the representative of an excellent family, being the daughter
of Francis and Mary (Jepsen) Buck, of Welton township, this county,
where they have long been influential. One son has graced the union of
Mr. and Mrs. Berst, Walter Benjamin, born on August 21, 1905.

Mr. Berst is one of the well-to-do men of Welton, and is regarded by
all who know him as a man of sound business principles and modern methods.
His course has been such that he has won the confidence and good will
of all with whom he has come into contact, and personally he is a pleasant
man to know, energetic, genial, unassuming, honest and always ready to
do his full duty in the work of progressive citizenship, and it is to such
able and untiring workers as he that this locality has forged ahead until
it ranks second to none in the great Hawkeye commonwealth.

HENRY SCHOENING.

A descendant of an influential old pioneer family, members of which
have figured conspicuously in the affairs of Clinton county from the days
of the early settler to the present time, is Henry Schoening, one of the
thrifty citizens of the vicinity of Bryant, who, as his name would indicate,
is of German ancestry, from whom he seems to have inherited many traits
that have helped him to win in the battle of life.

Mr. Schoening was born in Clinton county, Center township, Iowa,
on December 8, 1866. He was reared on a farm and educated in the
district schools. He is the son of Frederick and Louisa (Lammerts)
Schoening, both born in the province of Holstein, Germany, where they
were married. Soon after he left his wife there and came to America alone.

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. 101 1

locating in Clinton county, Iowa. His passage was paid, but he had nothing
left when lie arrived here. He stopped at Lyons and took up employment
at such labor as he could find to do. Wages were not high at that time,
but h.e continued two years and saved his earnings until he had sufficient
money ahead to send for his wife and child to come to him. After their
arrival here he continued to work and as soon as he was able to buy a team
he rented land and engaged in farming, continued renting for several years
and then bought forty acres of timberland. which he lost no time in clearing
anrl putting in cultivation. He prospered as he added to his lands and
finally owned eleven hundred and twenty acres, divided into several farms,
renting some and carrying on general farming on others. He raised, bought
and fed numb(;rs of cattle and gave all his attention to his lands and farming
interests. When a young man he was stout and hearty and a hard worker,
alwavs conservative and careful in his investments and, w'ith careful man-
agement, hard work and honest dealing, he created a large estate. He
was a broad-minded and intelligent man and a good financier. He was a
Democrat in politics and always interested in public affairs, though he
never aspired to office. He was always charitable to the oppressed and
needy and a good neighbor and friend. His honesty and integrity were
above reproach and his word was as good as his bond. Both he and his
wife were Lutherans in the old country, from which faith they never de-
parted. The father was born on May 28, 1835, and died on April -18, 1908,
aged seventy-five years. His wife still survives and resides at Lyons, where
she has lived for fourteen years ; she is in her seventy-sixth year, but wd\
preserved, notwithstanding the hard labor and many hardships she under-
went in the pioneer days. These good people became the parents of nine
children: Lena, Airs. William Schrader; Anna, who married Ingwer
Momsen; William is a farmer: Fred lives on the old homestead: Henry,
the subject; August is a farmer: Lizzie, now Mrs. Johan S. Snecklodt ;
Minnie, who married William Wiese : Ferdinand, of Lyons, was a farmer,
but is now retired.

Henry Schoening remained under the parental roof until his marriage
in 1803, ^^^^ th^" ^^^ rented a farm where he labored for two years, after
which he rented a farm from his father, where he yet resides, the same
consisting of three hundred and twenty acres. After the death of his father
and the latter's will was settled, Henry had been given two hundred thirty-
five acres of the farm, with the improvements thereon. The farm had a
two-story stone house and one large barn. He has remodeled the farm and
erected corn-cribs and another large barn for convenience and has made

IOI2 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

his house and home more attractive by cement walks around the yard and
house, and the farm is well developed and under a high state of cultivation.
He cultivates one hundred forty acres, the balance being in grass. In ad-
dition to his general farming interests, he carries on a large live stock
business, feeding much stock of a first class variety for the markets. He
feeds very large numbers of cattle and hogs, which have added much to his
income. Politically, Mr. Schoening is a Republican, but does not aspire to
office, more than minor township offices. He was reared by a good Lutheran
mother, from which faith he has never departed. He is well known and
commands universal confidence among his many friends and neighbors.

Mr. Schoening married Emma Dittmann, who was born in Hamp-
shire township, this county, on July 2, 1872, the daughter of Claus and Anna
(Frahm) Dittmann, he of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, she also of that
country. They were married in the old country and came to i\merica in
1870, locating in Hampshire township. He was a carpenter by trade. He
had small means when he came to America, but by thrift and economy
saved enough to buy two hundred acres of land, which he first rented, but
later his sons conducted it. He never engaged in farming himself, but
worked at his trade. He is a voter and is well posted in all business of
the county and nation. He has never aspired to office, although he has
served on the school board and several other minor offices. He became well
known and highly respected in each community in which he lived. Both
he and his wife are Lutherans. He is now seventy-five years old, and his
wife is sixty-three. They have retired from active labor and reside on
the old homestead in Hampshire township. Four children were born to
Mr. and Mrs. Dittmann : Minnie, Mrs. Adolph Thiesen ; Emma, wife of
the subject; Rudolph, a traveling salesman for farming implements; Her-
man is a farmer and lives on the home farm.

Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Schoening,
Alfred, Erwin and Laurina, all at home.

JOHN P. AMBROSE.

Realizing that the present age is one of specialists, when in order to
succeed one must know how to do things both well and quickly. John P.
Ambrose, well known in manufacturing circles of Clinton county, sought to

JOHN P. AMBROSE

X, A^TD

TIONS

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. 10 1 3

make himself proficient in whatever he turned his attention to, with the re-
sult that he has been rewarded with a large measure of success and at the
same time has won a reputation for industry and straightforward dealings
with his fellow men.

Mr. Ambrose was born in Buffalo, New York, December lo, 1864, and
is the son of Norman and Barbara (Schaller) Ambrose. They were both
born in Alsace, now a part of the German empire, but at that time belonging
to France. The father came to America at the age of seventeen years with
his parents. Barbara Schaller emigrated to our shores when sixteen years old
with her parents. Both families located in Buffalo and there the parents of
John P. Ambrose were married. The father began work as a poster at the
Mansion House on Main street. Later he began "hacking" for himself and
followed that fourteen or fifteen years. Owing to ill health, he then pur-
chased a farm in Erie county, near Gardenville, and remained there until he
retired from active life and moved back to Buffalo where he spent the re-
mainder of his days, dying in March, 1903. His widow is still living, hav-
ing reached the advanced age of eighty-seven years, still hale and hearty.
She is one of the oldest settlers in Buffalo. Seven children were born to Mr.
and Mrs. Norman Ambrose. Three daughters and two sons are living, while
two sons are deceased.

John P. Ambrose was educated in the German Catholic schools of
Buffalo, New York, and he also attended St. Cornecia's College, from which
institution he was graduated in the class of 1882. He started in life for him-
self by entering the crockery l)usiness for George E. Newman & Companv
at Buffalo as delivery boy. He then learned the brass finishing trade in the
same place, but on account of ill health he gave up that work and started in
at the Hamlin Glucose Works at Buffalo, and remained there for a period of
ten years, having become general starch boss at the end of that time. He
then went to Peoria, Illinois, and entered the glucose business as foreman in
the starch department. He remained there two years and then went to Rock-
ford four years and from there to Waukegan, where he became an employe of
the United States Sugar Refining Company and remained with that concern
one year, then went to Peoria, Illinois, with the Peoria Glucose Works, where
he also spent one year, then returned to Waukegan and worked for the C. N.
Warner Sugar Refining Company, in the position of night superintendent.
He remained with this concern, giving his usual high grade service and eminent
satisfaction, until the concern was sold, then Mr. Ambrose came to Clinton,
Iowa, September 22, 1906, and was employed by the Clinton Sugar Refining
Company as assistant manufacturing superintendent, which position he still

10 14 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

holds to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. He is regarded as an ex-
pert in this line and his long years of practical experience, studious habits
and careful attention to details renders his services of inestimable value to
whatever concern he is connected with.

Mr. Ambrose is a Democrat in politics and he belongs to the German
Catholic church, as does his wife. He is a member of the Catholic Mutual
Benefit Association and the Modem Woodmen of America.

On April 8, 1890, Mr. Ambrose was married to Catherine Woelfel, a
native of New York and a member of an excellent old family. One child,
Elmer Edward, was bom to this union. He is now a student and is a base
ball pitcher of considerable note. Mrs. Ambrose was called to her rest on
Thanksgiving day, 1892, and on June 6, 1899, Mr. Ambrose married Margaret
Cecelia Shanahan, a native of Oil City, Pennsylvania, and a lady of many win-
ning traits. This union has resulted in the birth of three children, Catherine
Margaret and Norman Joseph; one child died in infancy.

JOHN MARTIN ATZEN.

Among the young agriculturists of Brookfield township, Clinton county,
who have forged to the front in their chosen line of endeavor, the name
of John Martin Atzen is worthy of special mention in this connection,
for he has been a hard worker and has managed well, as only a cursory
glance over his splendid farm will attest.

Mr. Atzen was born in Berlin township, this county, June 29, 1881.
He is the son of Henry and Anna (Wies) Atzen. both natives of Germany,
the former born on November 18, 1854; the latter died when Mr. Atzen
was young. The father came to Clinton county, Iowa, when fifteen years
of age and located in Berlin township, and he lived with his uncle, Peter
Petersen, there for some time. After he was of age he began life for him-
self by renting farming land in Berlin township, which method he followed
for several years, and by being economical and working hard he got a
good start, and in alx)ut 1883 he bought a farm of one hundred and sixty
acres in Brookfield township, and afterwards bought one lumdred and twenty
acres more adjoining. The place was nearly all timber when he purchased
it. but he went to work with a will and in due course of time cleared it
and placed it under cultivation, and erected good, comfortable buildings.
He carried on general farming and stock raising, always feeding a large

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. IOI5

number of cattle each year. Politically he was a Democrat and he served
his district as school director. He belonged to the Lutheran church and
was a man of high integrity and honor, his life being led along such lines
as always inspire the confidence and good will of others. After the death
of his first wife he w^as married to Mrs. Anna Bleadorn. The following
children were born to the first union : Harry, Eddie, John Martin and Mrs.
Anna Schmidt. Two children were born to the second union, Minnie
and Hilda. The father moved to Maquoketa, Iowa, in 1905 and retired.

John M. Atzen, of this review, grew to maturity on the home farm,
which he worked when old enough, and he attended school in Brookfield
township. He remained under the parental roof until he married ; in fact,
he has never left the home place, but prior to his marriage he assisted
his father with the general work about the farm, and since then he has
been doing for himself, and he has shown that he is a very able agri-
culturist in all its phases, keeping the farm well improved and well stocked
and his labors are rewarded year by year by abundant harvests. He is
enterprising, hard-Working and is highly respected by his neighbors, as
was his honored father before him. He feeds cattle quite extensively and
has good success in this line. Mr. Atzen was baptized in the German
Lutheran church and he has never departed from that faith.

On March 20, 1905, Mr. Atzen was married to Otilie Kettelsen, who
was born in Brookfield township, the daughter of Claus and Hermina Ket-
telsen, which union has resulted in the birth of two children, Martha and
a baby, Vernon. Like the Atzen family, the Kettelsens are highly respected.

WILLL\M BRUCE CRAMPTON.

This is the day of Anglo-Saxon supremacy, and proud should those
persons be in whose veins flows the pure English blood, for theirs is the
race and the strain w^hich have given the color and form to the two greatest
nationalities of the day, the American and the British. There are persons
in these nationalities of many and various descents, but the English element
has pressed its dominant stamp on all the national characteristics, and they
are to all practical purposes English nations throughout. This review re-
cords the doings of a family who exemplify the strongest English traits.

William Bruce Crampton was born on June 16, 1881, in Clinton county,
Iowa, the son of William Crampton. William Crampton was born in

I0l6 CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA.

Lincolnshire, England, on December 7, 185 1, the son of William and Mary
Crampton. His parents came to this country in 1852, and located in Eden
township, where a number of English families had colonized, and there
purchased a farm, following agricultural pursuits until their deaths, at the
respective ages of seventy-five and eighty-five. They were the parents of
ten children, six of whom are living, all in this county except Benjamin.
Those resident in Clinton county are John, George, Eliza (now Mrs. Halless),
Mrs. John Clement and William.

William Crampton received his education in the common schools, and
was married in this county to Eliza Robson, who died on July 11, 1881, and
was buried in Elvira cemetery. There were born to them four sons, Frankie
(deceased), Elmer E., Oliver and William Bruce. The three last named
live near each other on one hundred and sixty acres each of fertile land im-
proved with good buildings. Their father retired from the farm in 1904,
first moving to Clinton, and later purchasing property at Low Moor, where
he now resides. He began married life on the farm where his son, Elmer
E , now lives, and Ijy good management and industry accumulated property
until he was, when he retired, the owner of five hundred and sixty acres
of fine farming land, the most of which lies in Center township.

William Bruce Crampton, the youngest member of the family, resides
upon his farm of one hundred and sixty acres, located one mile east of
Elvira. He is a young man of sterling qualities and one of the successful
young farmers of his county. In politics he is a Democrat, in religion
a member of the Lutheran church, while fraternally he is a member of
the order of Eagles. He is unmarried. None of the younger residents of
the township are more popular or better liked than is Mr. Crampton, nor
have a more promising future.

JACOB HOFFMANN.

Although probably not a relative of the great German composer bearing
the name of Hoffmann, the gentleman whose name introduces this biograph-
ical review has, nevertheless, esthetic qualities, in a way, whether he has
made a reputation as a musician or not, for he is a lover of nature and
harmony and symmetry, as is shown by the tasty manner in which he keeps
his farm in Hampshire township, Clinton county, for it is calculated to impress
the stranger at a glance, being well kept, clean and in proper order.

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CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. ID 1 7

Jacob Hoffmann was born in Germany on February 21, 1862, the son of
Peter and Martha (Paulsen) Hoffmann, both born, reared and echicated in the
fatherland, nnd who. in the year 1873, emio-rated to America and located in
Clinton county, Iowa. The father was a shoemaker by trade, which he fol-
lowed successfully until old age. He lived in Washington township, this
county, where his death occurred on February 21, 1901. His widow is still
living, now at an advanced age. They were the parents of seven children, all
of whom are living.

Jacob Hoffmann received his education in the schools of Germany, where
he grew to maturity. He also attended school a short time after coming to
this country. He was reared on a farm and he took up farming for a life
occupation, working out as a farm hand until he was thirty-four years old,
or in 1896, when, having saved his money, he purchased a farm of one hun-
dred and sixty acres in Hampshire township, Clinton county. He has brought
this place up to a high state of cultivation and improvement, and built a fine
house, a good barn and made all necessary improvements on the same. He
is a general farmer and raises some good stock. In politics he is an inde-
pendent voter, preferring to support the men who. in his judgment, are best
qualified to fill the offices sought. He and his wife belong to the Lutheran
church at Elvira.

On March 3. 1897, Mr. Ploffmann was united in marriage with Mrs. i\Ia-
tilda Jacobsen, a native of Clinton, Iowa, where she was reared and educated.
This union has resulted in the birth of three children, Martin, Ernest and
Louisa.

CHARLES JARGO.

This sketch deals with the life of a man who is prominently identi-
fied with the farming and stock raising interests of Elk River township
and the vice-president of the Teeds Grove Savings Bank. Charles Jargo
was born in Elk River township, Clinton county, Iowa, on March 218, 1864,
was reared to farming and stock raising, and recei\'ed his education in the
district schools, and at Riverside Institute, where he spent two terms. He
is the son of William F. and Wilhelmina (Lange) Jargo, both natives of
Mecklinburg. Germany, where they were married. William F. Jargo was
reared as a shepherd boy, caring for the sheep, later engaged in regular farm
work, and when married came to America, landing in New York in 1857.
From there he came to Chicago, where both he and his wife found employ-

IOl8 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

ment on a farm, for, being without means, they were not afraid to work.
Here they remained but a short time and then came to CHnton, where he
found work cutting cord wood for the railroad at a low price per cord.
Later he worked at such labor as he could find, mostly for the farmers,
often taking pay in some of their produce, on which he could live, thus con-
tinuing until he was able to buy a yoke of oxen, when he rented a farm.
He rented until 1867, when he bought eighty acres of land at twenty-five
dollars per acre, with a small amount of improvements, including a box
house. He resided on this farm until his death, to which he added until it
included two hundred and forty acres, and had bought other lands, and
aided his three sons in the purchase of farms. Mr. Jargo followed general
farming and stock raising, also buying and feeding stock for market, mostly
shipping his own stock, and giving his attention to his farm and its prod-
ucts to the exclusion of other matters. In the true sense of a self-made man,
he accumulated a good estate. His best and most often consulted adviser
was his wife, a faithful helpmate. In politics he was a Republican, but never
aspired to office beyond serving in some of the township offices, among them
that of school director, which he filled for several years. He and his wife
were brought up in the Lutheran faith, from which they never departed,
and were well known and highly respected residents of their community, of
honor and integrity above reproach. Mr. Jargo died on August 24, 1903,
in his ninety-fourth year, his wife on September 24, 1904. They were the
parents of three sons: William, who is a practical, neat and successful farmer
in Jackson county, Iowa; Charles, and Ernest, also a prominent farmer of
Jackson county, living near Miles, and near his brother William.

Charles Jargo was reared on the old homestead, which he now owns
and where he resides and carries forward the work inaugurated by his
father. He has made a record equal to his father's, and is engaged in
general farming and the raising of thoroughbred and registered Short-
horn cattle, Percheron and Norman horses, and Poland China hogs. He
has added to the homestead, and now owns four hundred and sixteen acres
of farming and grass land, well adapted to stock raising, with running
water and wells in each field. The house, which is built on an elevated
site, he has remodeled and enlarged and has erected other needed buildings,
making his one of the best improved farms in the township. He is a stock-
holder in the Teeds Grove Savings Bank and its vice-president. This is
one of the solid institutions of Clinton county. He also owns an interest
in two fine stallions of proved merit, one a Percheron and the other a Belgian,
and is a member of a threshing machine company, and the committeeman

MRS. DORA STRUVE

WILLIAM STROVE

; ni.

lUi

CLINTON COUNTY^ IOWA. IOI9

that bought the machine. For eight years he has been a member of the
school board, and has given liis children a good education, three of them
having graduated from the high school, and three from the public schools,
ready for advancement. Mr. Jargo is a strong and active Republican, but
has cared to hold no offices save that of township clerk. Baptized in the
Lutheran faith, he has never departed from it. Fraternally, he is a member
of the Odd Fellows and has filled all the chairs.

In 1888 Charles Jargo was married to Julia Kunau, the daughter of
John and x\nna C. (Feldtmann) Kunau, natives of Germany, where they
were married and where their daughter Julia was born. John Kunau came
to America without his family in 1868, landing in New York, then, bringing
the family, made a short stop in Ohio, and came on to Iowa, where he
started in on a small scale as a farm renter. He was successful, and later
bought a good farm of three hundred acres, forty of which were in timber.
After advancing age had come to him, he sold the farm to his son and
retired from active lal3or. In politics he is independent. He and his family
are members of the Lutheran church. Mr. Kunau is well known, and highly
respected where known. His family consisted of Julia, Mrs. Jargo; John,
a farmer; Theresa, Mrs. M. H. Peters; Ernest, a farmer; Bertha, Mrs.
Henry Peters; Elfreda, Mrs. Ferdinand Peters: xA.lfred, farmer on the
homestead; and S. H., assistant cashier of the Teeds Grove Savings Bank.
To Mr. and Mrs. Jargo have been born six children ; the eldest are twins,
William H. and John K., born October 8, 1890: Alta P., born on Sep-
tember 3, 1892; Malinda J., born on March 17, 1895; and Marvin B. and
Ervin A., twins, born on December 24, 1896.

The Drover's Journal of Chicago offered three prizes for subscrip-
tions to their paper, the second of which was a ticket to Washington, D. C,
which was won by Marvin B., one of Mr. Jargo's youngest sons. So his
father paid the fare for his twin brother, and the two boys made the trip,
and stood in front of the Capitol in the group and had their pictures taken
with the national winners, the whole being quite an achievement for thir-
teen-year-old boys.

WILLIAM STRUVE.

The name which heads this sketch is one of the best known names in
Elk River township and in Clinton county, as that of the miller of Hauntown,
while his mill is one of the historic landmarks of the county. William Struve

I020 CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA.

was born in Jackson county, Iowa, on August i8, 1858, the son of Ernest H.
and Safrina (Schnoor) Struve, both natives of Germany. Ernest H. Struve
was born in 1826, and in 1848 came to America, first locating in Texas, and
later in Scott county, Iowa. He bought raw land and in 1854 bought in Jack-
son county. In 1868 he sold this and engaged in milling at Teeds Grove,
having learned the millwright's trade in his native land. He remained but
one year at Teeds Grove, and then bought an interest in the mill near Haun-
town. in Elk River township, which he conducted until 1887, when he sold
the mill to his son William and moved to Almont, where he bought an im-
proved farm, and where he was postmaster for a number of years, living
mostly a retired life. He was a very competent miller, did both merchant
and custom work, and was very successful and much respected, being known
as the "honest miller." In politics he was a Republican and took much inter-
est in public affairs, being proud of his adopted country. Both he and his
wife were members of the Lutheran church. He died on April 24, 1900; his
wife preceded him in December, 1898. She was the daughter of Henry
Schnoor, a native of Germany, who came to America in 1854, with his family,
and located in Jackson county, where he followed the millwright's trade for a
time, which he had learned in the old country, and also did carpenter work.
He was a Lutheran. Air. Struve was among the oldest of his eight children.

To Ernest Struve and his wife six sons and two daughters were born,
namely: The eldest died in infancy; Paul H. is a farmer and assistant in the
mill; William; John, the miller of Lyons; Ferdinand, formerly a fanner and
miller, now lives retired at Miles, Iowa; Amelia married John Frahm; Ed-
ward is a farmer; Martha M. married J. L. Myers.

William Struve grew up at farming and milling, attended the district
schools, and has a good practical education. He assisted his father in the mill
for some time, then rented it from him, and finally bought it. This mill was
an old-style buhr mill, which he has since remodeled and now uses up-to-date
machinery, having six pairs. of rolls for wheat, while he uses the old stone
mill for buckwheat and rye, and does merchant and custom work. He ex-
changes with the farmers flour for wheat, grinds feed, and also runs a saw-
mill in connection. The Elk River mill is one of the oldest in Iowa, the
present mill, which succeeded others on the same site, having been built in
18^4. originally using water power from the Elk river, but Mr. Struve has
attached a steam engine for use when the water is low. In early days the
settlers came for one hundred miles about to Elk River mill, and Hauntown
was one of the prosperous early settlements, while the mill is an old land-

CLINTON COUNTY, IOWA. I02I

mark known to all of the early settlers. It has always been operated by cap-
able millers and the people have been treated honestly. Mr. Struve uses home
grown wheat except when the supply is short, then ships in from elsewhere.
For many years he gave his entire attention to the mill, but has later branched
out. The mill property contains over three hundred acres of farming, pas-
ture and timber land, and Mr. Struve raises cattle, hogs and horses, and feeds
cattle and hogs for market, mostly shipping his own stock. In 1898 he as-
sisted in organizing the Sabula Telephone Company, which was incorporated
in that year, and is president of the company, which has over three hundred
phones in operation. In politics he is a Republican, and active, being a lead-
ing member of the township committee and having filled school offices and
served as township tax collector with credit to himself and satisfaction to the
people and party.

Mr. Struve has been twice married, the first time, in 1888, to Ella Myers,
a native of Elk River township, the daughter of Adam and Eizzie (Kline)
Myers, her father a native of Germany and her mother of Ohio. Adam
Myers was a farmer, Ijut has now retired to Lyons, where his wife died in
April, 1910. Four children were born to Mr. Struve by his first wife: Cora
M., Ethel I., Joseph W. and Roy A., all at home. Their mother died in
March, 1896. Mr. Struve was again married in November, 1897, ^o Dora
Myers, a sister of his former wife. To this union there have been four
children born: Virtus H., Lyle A., Harvey E. and Leslie M.

JOHN F. FOX.

The name of John F. Fox is well remembeed in railroad circles in east-
ern Iowa, and, in fact, by a wide circle of loyal friends and acquaintances,
for he was for many years considered one of the best men in his line of work
in this country and his genial personality, coupled with his straightforward
business policy and his hospitable manner, made him admired and respected
by all who came into contact with him. He will not soon be forgotten h